This is a women's microfinance project begun in the slums of Uganda by a handful of women who worked in rock quarries with small hammers breaking rocks for a $1.00 a day. Most of them have contracted AIDS from their husbands and their children are born infected with the virus. As women die, others take their children in. They have built 5 houses, a clinic and a school with proceeds for the sale of jewelry they make from scrap paper. Lives have been changed. The world is a better place because of these brave women and their sponsors here in the US.This special fundraising event is a cause supported by Maryanne Meloy from our 419 at Colonial store in Roanoke. "I believe microfinance projects are the key to women and children gaining independence and freedom on so many levels," says Maryanne. "I am so thrilled we at Trinity will be doing a small part to further this cause. It is a great tie-in for me as it combines my love for finely crafted and unusual jewelry with a deep interest in the growth of microfinancing around the world and with my understanding of mission. I am gladdened by The Episcopal Church's Millennium Goals Office support."
Aimee, a graduate student majoring in African and Asian studies at George Mason, visited one of these projects in Marrakesh and was so excited. She and Maryanne presented a program about it at Trinity and at Community School.
Contact Maryanne at 540-254-2203 or divadaedalus@verizon.net. Click here to learn more about Bead for Life. Hope you can come!!!
