Last November, devastating flooding swept through Sumatra. More than a million people were displaced, communities were cut off, and families across the region were suddenly facing enormous loss and uncertainty. Among those affected were communities connected to KGLA, our longtime cooperative partners in the Gayo highlands of Sumatra.
When we heard what was happening, our first response was to reach out directly and find out what they needed. KGLA was working to get food to people who had been displaced by the flooding, and we sent funds immediately to support that work.
Then, we reached out to you. Over the years, we’ve shared a lot of stories from our coffee-growing partners: new harvests, community-led projects, environmental work, and so much great coffee. This was a different kind of update. We shared what was happening and invited our Dean’s Beans community to join us in supporting KGLA’s relief efforts. Your response was incredible.
Dean’s Beans initially sent $7,500, and you contributed $5,000 more! Now, our friends at KGLA have sent us something we’re happy to share with you. Click on the video below for a thank you from their community, sent to ours.
To everyone who donated, shared our message, or reached out with concern for the Sumatran people affected, we thank you. And to our friends at KGLA, thank you for taking the time to send this message to the Dean’s Beans community.
With gratitude,
The Dean’s Beans Team