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In the shantytowns just outside of Lima, Peru, the average income is less than $100 per month. Three quarters of heads of households are unemployed. The majority scrape a living from informal trades or construction work. Into this environment steps Threads of Hope, a Forrest Outreach Foundation SEED Program that assists Peruvian families by supporting women who sew the beautiful indigenous textile crafts of Peru.
Threads of Hope facilitates the sale of this hand-work throughout the United States, returning more than 90% of the sales proceeds to enhance the financial welfare of participating families. The Peruvian crafters put the money toward their greatest needs, including areas that directly impact their childrens' futures, such as education, housing, and health care.
Peru has long been famous for its fiber art known as arpilleras. In fact, 6,000 year-old textiles have been discovered, their brilliant colors undiminished by Peru's dry desert air. Today, arpilleras are still a common cultural form of decoration in Peruvian households. And now, this ancient art has been transformed into an opportunity for women living in shantytowns around Lima to create a new life for their families. Threads of Hope, in partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Peru, facilitates and supports numerous sewing groups. These groups meet weekly for Bible study and to build community while sewing together.
Exquisite detail, vivid color, and the heart of each artist make every arpillera a one-of-kind gift for anyone.
A word to you from the Peruvian crafters:
"With my work I send you the peace of God. May it lighten your life like the sun and moon brighten the day and the night."
"We dedicate our art with much love, caring, and a big strong hug for all. Even though you are far away, you are in our hearts."
"I hope this finds all of you who have given us work in good health. I hope you spend time with your families and that they are all in good health. Thank you for everything. May god bless. I will continue to work for my children."
"May your heart be filled with peace, love, and happiness. Thank you for your help. It helps me and my family. We have you in our hearts and prayers. May God bless you and your family."
View these aprilleras at the on-line catalog or contact our Threads of Hope staff at 972-809-7500 or
hope@forrestoutreachfoundation.org
To order your own arpilleras, use our catalog on-line or contact our SEED product coordinator at 972.809.7500 or
hope@forrestoutreachfoundation.org. |