go2antiques

The Fort Worth Show welcomes two Benefit Booths on March 2,3,4, 2018, both about transformation: The Center for Transforming Lives which helps Fort Worth women and children build new futures after homelessness and abuse (See Dec. Blog ) ... and Threads of Hope Textiles, an international micro-business that provides retail selling opportunities for impoverished artisans around the world who have the skill and determination to succeed.  

Founded in 1999 on Christian faith principles, Threads of Hope (ToH) began with seven artisans in a shantytown outside Lima, Peru. The new non-profit organization provided USA sales of textiles that brought in $7,000 that year for their community. Today ToH works with over 300 artisans and has sold a total of over $2.5 million on behalf of makers primarily from South America.

In 2014 The University of Mary Hardin Baylor donated warehouse space and technical support. This was added to a growing group of professional merchandising volunteers who partnered with the artisan communities to grow the concept in a sustainable way. A special ToH project links persons with wheelchair disabilities in the USA with their counterparts in other countries, producing unique textiles for "chair people" and forging a human connection across diverse settings.  

Cinde Rawn, of Plano, Texas, is the Executive Director of Threads of Hope. On a recent visit to artisans, Cinde met Susanna, a young mother of two boys, married to Edgar.

As Cinde put it, "They are committed to their family and giving their boys the best opportunities for a successful life." Susanna, right, has used her grants from ToH to start building the house they dream of for their family. By western standards, Cinde explains, it is a humble home. But through the eyes of people rising out of poverty, it is a castle that fulfills many hopes and dreams. Purchasing textiles from Threads of Hope empowers dreams and creates hope...one family at a time.

What can you buy March 2,3,4 at the Fort Worth Show from the sewers and artisans of ToH? Woven scarves, pillows, purses, children's and holiday items, rugs, pillows and other home decor. Quality, authenticity, beauty.

Threads of Hope works through public events like the Fort Worth Show of Antiques & Art and also through smaller events such as a church or club or a home sale. Find out about hosting a sale, shopping on-line, donating or just learning more about this extraordinary organization that gives hope to us all. 

Visit with Cinde at the Fort Worth Show or see threadsofhopetextiles.org