Buy a bag from the homeless
George Municipality has initiated a new work project that aims to help a segment of the homeless population through providing training in sewing.
Their first products are now available for purchase, including beautiful handbags, sling bags, aprons, and aprons for braaiing. Everything has been crafted from donated materials, using a single sewing machine.
Estelle Fredericks, a social auxiliary worker in the Community Development Services department at George Municipality, stated that although the group of seven participants remained homeless, they convened every workday at the community development offices to engage in their projects.
Fredericks said that the project aims to support the group economically and eventually facilitate their transition from the streets.
Profits from sales will be reinvested to purchase a second sewing machine, enabling more homeless individuals to join and learn to create products.
Additionally, the department is in the process of launching a woodwork project to complement the sewing initiative to expand the range of products available for sale.
Members of the public interested in purchasing any of the products are encouraged to visit the Community Development offices located at the intersection of Varing and St John's streets. Purchases can be made directly from the participants during their work hours, or customers can discuss their own design preferences and place custom orders. Apart from handbags and aprons, the group offers curtain production, clothing repair and alteration services.
For further inquiries regarding purchasing items or donating materials, please contact Estelle Fredericks on 044 802 2000.