TIME TO MAKE FASHION Clarendon woman gets chance at sewing
Ayoung resident from deeprural Clarendon who has a passion for sewing/dressmaking has decided to make it her source of generating an income.
Dammannice Allen, 20, who lives in Crawle River in the parish, recently received a brand new sewing machine from Food for the Poor, which she is planning to use to make a living for herself and her family.
“I am very happy to receive the sewing machine, because I like sewing and designing on a whole, and this piece of equipment will help me to advance in that area, so I am very happy about it,” she said.
Allen already has plans to venture into the fashion market big time, suggesting that designing and making clothes for sale in stores is a lucrative and viable option. As a start, she is hoping to reach out to community members by making uniforms. She thinks this will be a great start in the deep-rural community.
She said that she developed a love for sewing while in high school, where she learnt to make skirts and blouses.
“I am not that great now, but I can do my thing,” she said noting that the sewing machine will no doubt enhance her skill as she is eager to learn more.
Formal training at HEART Trust/NTA is next on the cards for her.
GRATEFUL
“I am very happy to receive this brand new machine. You made it possible for me to better my skill and earn a living instead of just sitting at home, and for this, I say a big ‘thank you’ to you all,” she said.
Charmaine Gayle, childrens’ officer at the Clarendon Poor Relief Department, which was instrumental in securing the machine, said that the gift of the machine is an important one.
“After not going to school for a year, she was placed in high school where she gained three CSEC subjects including clothing and textiles. From then, I decided I would offer rehabilitation to keep her focused,” said Gayle, who has been fostering Dammannice for more than 16 years.