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SEED Products

Peru has long been famous for its textiles. In fact, textiles dating back 6,000 years have been discovered with their fabric intact and their brilliant colors undiminished, preserved from deterioration by the dry desert air. Arpilleras are a very common cultural form of decoration in Peruvian households. These wall hangings tell the story of the region where the artists are from, describing the local life of the community. Typical scenes include a wedding, the marketplace, workers in the fields and even their livestock.

This ministry is one of the economic development programs led by the Episcopal Diocese of Peru under the supervision of Bishop William Godfrey. A member of the English-speaking congregation from the Episcopal Diocese of Peru directs this group of 18 women. Orders are placed via e-mail and the products are delivered to the United States by an international courier service. Products include wall hangings, pillow covers, shams, Christmas stockings, oven mitts and Bible covers.

More than 90% of the revenue generated from the sale of these products is used to reinforce the women's family budget. Without this additional support, many of their needs would not be met in areas that directly affect their children (education, housing, health, etc.)

The women who create these beautiful arpilleras live in a shantytown located in the desert hills on the outskirts of Lima. Here, 75% of heads of households are underemployed; most make what living they can from informal trades in construction work as masons or assistants. Their average monthly income range is less then $100/month.

The women use cut-off material purchased from shops and factories by weight for their fabric. After purchasing a bundle, they sort it and decide how they can best use the fabric. They meet together on a weekly basis, then continue working at home. The women have become good friends. They discuss their problems and pray together at the weekly meetings.

View these aprilleras at the on-line catalog or contact our SEED Product coordinator at 972-809-7500 or arpilleras@forrestoutreachfoundation.org

To order your own arpilleras, use our on-line catalog or contact our SEED product coordinator at 972.809.7500 or arpilleras@forrestoutreachfoundation.org.