Lob Group
Livestock farming plays an important role in the economy of the city because it facilitates production of fresh, cream, string and cottage cheese as well as butter, besides belonging to a cane growing region which activates the economy even more during harvest time. In one of the colonies a group called “Lob” was formed by the founding members of the group.
The members are:
Clara, Miriam – Clothing
Gabriela, Erika – Bakery
Leticia, Valentina – Food
Priscila – Groceries
Perla – Bed linens
Valentina, 67, is a grand lady and mother of three adult children. Ten years ago, Vale, as she is known, decided to start over by selling tamales, tortillas and snack foods in order to support her children when she was left alone. So every eight days with the help of her daughter-in-law she makes 150 tamales. The night before she takes out the nixtamal, cuts, roasts and cleans the banana leaves and the next day her daughter-in-law goes to the mill and prepares the dough in a clay pot over a fire. She prepares the meat and sauce on a big wooden table and wraps the tamales and puts them in a steamer before putting them on the fire to cook. Some customers come to her house to buy them, and others order home delivery.
In addition to the tamales, from Monday through Sunday she sells tortillas, with an average of 300 to 400 tortillas per morning. To make them she uses a small press and cooks them on a clay grill. She also makes tortillas and gorditas (thick tortillas) on an order basis. “I am the happiest woman alive because I generate my own income and show that where there’s a will there’s a way.” says Vale cheerfully.
Vale will use her earnings to cover household expenses and personal expenses. This is her second loan and she will use it to buy corn, lard, meat, salt, chili pepper and firewood to continue her business and be able to buy a small mill so she can grind her own corn.
“I am grateful to God for being able to receive a new loan and continue our work. God bless you.” she says gratefully.
*The photo was taken in the patio of the house where they meet for collections. Vale is the one in a flower print dress.