I know this is already the end of May and I am writing about April’s Box of Blessings. I cannot believe it’s the beginning of summer and we skipped right through Spring. The saying goes “better late than never” so here is my review and information surrounding the items, artisan groups, and cause for April’s box. The items were handmade by skilled artisans in South America, specifically Ecuador and Peru.
PERU ARTISAN GROUP
Sanyork Fair Trade creates beautiful, handcrafted products in a dusty, poverty stricken suburb of Lima, Peru. Their goal is to provide a marketplace for the artisans so that they can continue using their skills and providing a sustainable income for themselves and future generations. Buying fair wage products may not change your world, but it does change the world of those artisans who are working with resources and skills in an environment where opportunities are limited.
Fishscale earrings are made from dyed fish scales from the paiche fish, native to the Amazon and a main food source in the area. They come in a variety of stunning colors, perfect for dressing up an outfit and adding a unique touch.
Manta headbands are made from scraps of blankets. Manta is a blanket that South American women use to carry their babies or harvested crops on their back. They come in an array of colors and are comfortable to wear for those messy hair days or a quick solution to keep hair pulled back. The elastic back keeps the headband in place throughout the day and I have found it to be one of the few bands I actually wear.
ECUADOR ARTISAN GROUP
Minga Imports came from an observed need for education in Ecuador, increased knowledge of fair trade in the United States, and a support system for sharing wages and ability to provide enough income for essentials and reinvest for the future economy and for generations to come. It is operated from the U.S. and works with around 20 retailers here, while supporting artisans from four countries, Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, and Columbia.
The bracelet is made in Ecuador from achera seeds and pieces of coconut, strung on an elastic band. It comes in a variety of colors and is great to accessorize for a day out.
Poverty fighting cause of the month went to Compassion International for their garden seeds program. $3 from every Box of Blessings is donated to a cause that helps break the cycle of poverty. This garden seed program was started to provide drought-resistant seeds for those living at extreme risk of famine. Our donation will help provide food security, agricultural training,and help families grow a plentiful crop for sustainability for them and their family. Here’s a link for a video clip about the garden seed program.
Thank YOU for supporting International Blessings when purchasing a Box of Blessings or items online at www.internationalblessings.com. The artisans are able to feed and educate themselves and their children because of the purchases YOU make. Together we are supporting others and bringing dignity to those around the world.
