International Food Distribution · A program of Food Aid Project
Zèl Zanj
Zèl Zanj is an in-development model for turning recleaned split beans—“Angel Wings”—into affordable staple-food access through qualified local partners, while creating an additional market pathway for farmers.
The name
Why “Angel Wings”
Zèl Zanj is Haitian Creole for Angel Wings. The program name comes from the wing-like shape of a split bean. Historical program materials identify Haiti as the first destination; current shipment records and operating partners must be reconfirmed before new activity is presented.
A bag with a second life
The model envisions 50 kg beans traveling in high-quality woven bags carrying mosaic-style “Angel Wings” artwork — a nod to the rich mosaic tile traditions of the region. The bags are chosen so families can reuse them to carry supplies long after the beans are gone: a small measure of dignity and sustainability built into the program.
How it works
A model that helps farmers and families at once
The in-development model is designed around a sourcing partner able to connect farmers, recleaning, packing and freight. Current suppliers, partners, pricing and geography must be verified for each future program cycle.
Contract directly with farmers
Work with qualified suppliers that can source from farmers, reclean split beans and create an additional market pathway.
Reclean, protect & pack
Damaged product and foreign material are removed, pests are mitigated, and the beans are recleaned to human-consumption quality and bagged into 50 kg woven sacks branded as “Angel Wings.”
Ship & distribute via NGOs
Confirm freight and qualified local distribution partners before any shipment is described as active.
Why it matters
The model is intended to connect farmer opportunity with affordable, nutritious staple-food access. That intended benefit is not presented as current operating impact.
Where we serve
Historical program geography
The insight
Why split beans go further
A split bean isn't just cheaper to buy — it changes the economics of the meal itself, especially where cooking fuel is scarce.
Cook faster, cost less
Split beans cook faster and cost less than whole beans — savings that reach both our NGO partners and the families they serve.
Fuel is the hidden cost
In communities where cooking fuel is scarce or expensive, wood, charcoal or gas can become a major part of the total meal cost.
Savings on both ends
Faster cooking means less fuel burned per meal. Zèl Zanj saves partners money on the food and saves families money on the fire.
The economics
Built for impact per dollar
These figures are planning assumptions from earlier program materials—not current prices, commitments or impact results. They must be recalculated before any future shipment. These figures remain historical planning assumptions until current sourcing and freight are reconfirmed.
A note on freight & status
Ocean-freight disruption interrupted the program. Zèl Zanj is now classified as being built while sourcing, freight, partner capacity and current geography are rebuilt and verified.
Looking ahead
Exploring expansion into Africa
Future application in Africa remains a development direction, not a current operating claim. Organizations working in food security, agriculture or logistics may start a conversation with us.
Calling artists
The Angel Wings name and bag art are part of the program concept. Artists interested in future mission-aligned work may contact Food Aid Project.
Support Zèl Zanj
Help rebuild the pathway
Donations support Food Aid Project's charitable mission and responsible program development. They are not represented as current shipments or guaranteed meals. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.