ECOM Foundation

The nonprofit, BasicNeeds, transforms the lives of people experiencing mental health problems in the world’s poorest communities. 80% of people facing mental health problems live in developing countries, where fewer than 1 in 5 get any treatment. Many endure prejudice and abuse and are prevented from exercising choice, pursuing opportunities and planning for the future. BasicNeeds works with local communities in Africa and Asia to tackle stigma, improve access to treatment and support, and provide opportunities for people experiencing mental illness so that they can return to work or continue their education and fulfil their potential.
The Agricultural Resilience & Inclusive Program created by BasicNeeds in Bungoma County, Kenya is supported by the ECOM Foundation to grow coffee and alternative crops to enhance sustainable farming in response to climate change, and to address the social and mental health of the community through educational programs and group activities such as brick making and poultry farming projects.