Manhattan College has launched its spring and Mother’s Day fundraiser to support Lasallian Women of Hope. The fundraiser began on April 21 and runs through May 8. Handmade fair trade gifts are on sale through May 8 and 25% of sales will support grassroots programs that provide educational opportunities for girls and women.
Through its grants, Lasallian Women of Hope provides creative, effective and durable solutions to help solve educational inequities facing these women and girls. The organization’s work benefits many countries including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Kenya, Papua New Guinea and South Africa.
“This is one of these loaves and fishes stories,” says Lois Harr, who serves on the Advisory Council for Lasallian Women of Hope and is an adjunct professor of religious studies. “A little goes a long way. The fair trade products are made by women. So this program is women helping women helping women.”
The sale includes home décor, jewelry and accessories and orders can be shipped throughout the United States. The fair trade products are made by hard-working artisans and farmers from around the globe and use no child labor. Producers receive fair wages and working conditions are safe with sustainable practices.
Lasallian Women of Hope’s initial grassroots program began at Mwagnaza College in 2016 with ‘The Pad Project,’ which provided menstrual hygiene management and personal hygiene products so female students could attend school without interruption.
To particapte in the fundraiser, visit https://fairtradecaravans.com/fundraiser/lasallian-women-of-hope/