EPIC’s programs are encouraging families in Central America to plant papayas, mangos, peaches, apples, plums, oranges, tangerines, and other varieties of fruit. Planting fruit trees gives families more nutritious food in a part of the world where food security is a serious problem and many children do not have enough nutritious food. Most families like to plant several kinds of fruit which enables them to have fruit year around since winters here are not cold.

Women love to plant fruit trees around their houses. The type of tree planted depends on the climate and elevation of the location. Mothers are aware that fruit makes a much better snack for their kids than the candy, soft drinks, and chips sold in all the local stores, but often fruit is just not sold in these small stores or it is way too expensive.