Her name is Vanette. She is twenty-eight. She is from Pestel. She now lives in Tabarre. She is married with two children. Chrisoline, seven years and Mischael, two months. She used to be a machant, but doesn't have the money to buy things any more. She would like to work because she has a lot of problems.
On the second day of class, I asked each lady to tell me something about themselves. Truthfully, they said very little, some more than others. I am guessing no one really asks them these kinds of questions, except nosey white women like me. They all live in a very small community that is just trying to live day to day.
Sarah, the midwife from Canada gave them the idea for the bags. I think she had seen it in Africa. It was not unlike the many projects we have seen in Africa. So, week after week, we have been saving our bags from the store, while Vanette, along with a few others, have been coming in with bigger and better bags. About two weeks ago, Lisa asked if she could use her favorite bag as a pattern and make another bag for her. Today was like my birthday, Christmas and every other reason to get a gift when Vanette walked in with her newest creation! Wow, it was beyond what I could imagine!
Everyone has heard "teach a man to fish". Well, give a woman a few used bags and a crochet hook and look what you get!
We are taking orders if you are interested in giving her the chance to empower herself! Bravo Vanette!
1 comment:
I don't know if you realize it but a lot of people read the Haiti blogs.
Could you tell us some more about the bags, the cost and how you can get them back to North America. So many people would be willing to support a project that produces something that will support an industrious woman and her family.
Especially because it is a useful item as well.
I would suggest a large button, even a stick on pone side of the top with a loop on the other to hold it closed. In fact something other than a button would give it more folk art value.
Something large could be a "farmers market" bag. I guess you'd need to explain that a farmers market here is like any market in Haiti.
If someone can learn to make a bag that has a bottom stitched in it would be even better. It would hold more without stretching all out.
I have seen lots of artistic crafts coming out of Haiti but most people have s limit for folk craft.
A useful folk craft could be such a good item.
I am saying prayers for you and the women.
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