The Clever Girls are at it again, and this time, the cleveristas are putting efforts towards supporting a cause close to my heart: Heart of Haiti, a non-profit dedicate to helping rebuild Haiti. The group is selling handmade arts and crafts from Haitian artisans through Macy's Heart of Haiti: Shop for a Better World program.
The program is the brainchild of Fairwinds Trading Company CEO Willa Shalit. Willa's company is dedicate to bringing the work of artists in developing nations to a wider audience, providing a much-needed source of income and support to people across the globe. I've bought jewelry and small bags in local shops from Fairwinds, and love that they have turned their attention to the grave situation in Haiti.
The earthquake that devastated the country on January 12, 2010 made it nearly impossible for many to make a living or rebuild what they had lost. These artisans found a way to take simple, and often recycled materials, and turn them into a celebration of Haiti's culture, and make a living for themselves.
We have been to several islands in the Carribean over the years, and purchased a number of colorful, decorative items for our home. The selection in the Heart of Haiti "shop" reminded me of the markets we visited in the Bahamas, St. Maarten, and Aruba. Even if you've never been to Haiti or other islands in the Carribean, you can add a little local flair to your kitchen with colorful bowls, wall art and jewelry from this collection. By doing so, in a small way, you help the people of Haiti to rebuild after the devastating earthquake of 2010.
Disclosure: I was selected for this very special “CleverHaiti” opportunity by Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity. All opinions are my own.
