Leadership Rooted in Lived Experience​

The Eshet Program is led by Betelihem Beshir, who grew up in Ethiopia before moving to Atlanta. For Betelihem, this work is deeply personal: she has witnessed firsthand the struggles families face in accessing fresh food, both in Addis Ababa and in immigrant neighborhoods in the U.S. Her leadership bridges continents, ensuring that Eshet reflects the dignity, resilience, and strength of the communities it serves.

​Meaning of “Eshet” (እሸት):

In Amharic, Eshet means “grain” or “harvest” — a symbol of life, nourishment, and community. This word reflects both our Ethiopian roots and our mission to ensure that no family faces hunger alone.

Mission

To alleviate hunger and restore dignity by providing consistent, nutritious food support to vulnerable families in Mehandis, Addis Ababa — every Saturday, one week’s worth at a time.

Vision

A hunger-free Mehandis where every family has reliable access to food and hope for a better future.

What’s in a Package?

Teff / Flour
​Lentils or Shiro
Rice / Macaroni
Cooking oil
Onions, garlic, and potatoes
Seasonal vegetables
​Optional: bread or protein (eggs, chickpeas)

Support the Eshet Food Program

• Distribute packages in Addis Ababa
• Expand community gatherings in Georgia
• Launch the Eshet Food Bank in Ethiopia
• Train youth leaders in food justice and climate resilience

​Together, we can fight hunger, empower youth, and grow resilient communities.

Support the “Eshet” (እሸት) Food Program

What We Do​

Distribution​

Thanks to generous donations of food supplies and household goods, we distribute care packages to families facing food insecurity. Each package provides nutritious staples and essentials, helping households maintain dignity and stability during times of need.

Community First and Youth-Led​

Focused on single mothers, elderly residents, and low-income households. Powered by local volunteers and the Ethiopian diaspora, under the umbrella of Voices of Change.

Local Partnerships

Collaborating with Ethiopian grocers, farmers, and small vendors to source and sustain food donations.

Georgia Pilot – Growing Across Borders​

In Georgia, we pilot the Eshet model through community gatherings that distribute fresh produce to families while building connections around food, culture, and resilience. These events not only provide access to healthy food but also create spaces where youth and families can lead conversations about food justice and sustainability.

​Why It Matters

Food insecurity affects 13% of Georgia’s population and millions more across Ethiopia. Hunger not only undermines health but also education and opportunity — children can’t learn on an empty stomach, and families can’t thrive without stability. By meeting immediate needs while building long-term food systems, Eshet fights hunger today and cultivates resilience for tomorrow.

Support the Eshet Food Program