Sheep

Sheep's thick wool makes warm clothes and blankets for subsistence farmers to wear in cold climates and sell for income.That's why a gift of sheep can bring "shear" joy to a family in need!

Heifer China teaches participants how to keep a nutritious and balanced diet for their high quality sheep, and to improve fragile grassland by keeping them in pens to limit grazing. But some do a lot more to make sure their sheep are happy.

In Miyun, just a few hours' drive outside of China's capital Beijing, Heifer recipient Wang Jilin slept with his new born lambs on his own heated kang bed during the long, cold winter! He needed to be sure that they are warm and comfortable and survive the harsh winter.

The reason is simple: his own family's survival is dependent on the sheep. In just one year, Wang was able to earn 6,000 yuan - more than five times his previous income. His family can now buy protein-rich meat for dinner every week; and he is confident that he can afford college tuition for his two girls.

Wang is no longer quiet and ashamed of his poverty. Heifer sheep helps him hold his head high and gains back dignity.

Give a sheep to honor someone's birthday rather than buy yet another sweater. It will surely warm your loved one's heart!