The Awaken girls are divided into three different centers at the Well. Two of the girls work at center one where they create handmade note cards. Two others work at center two where they design gorgeous jewelry. Jane and I work at center three were we make handbags and other small things. They have three old-fashioned sewing machines that remind me of my grandmother’s machine. The machines are built into the table with the cast iron petal attached to the table.
Growing up my mother placed a huge priority on teaching my older sister and I how to sew. We started at age nine and were required to sew at least one dress every year with the projects becoming more and more difficult. I can’t say I always saw this as a blessing; I remember one of my last spankings being over my negative attitude towards my mother in not wanting to sew. As time grows on, I can see why this skill is so beneficial. In Africa, hand-washing is a bit tough on clothing. Since I’ve been on the race, I have stitched several pieces of my clothing, as well as, my teammates. J
This month I am actually able to put those skills to work as well by helping the ladies with their projects. They keep me very busy sewing in pockets and liners, quilting new pieces, and assembling the bags together. We are now brain-storming on new designs of handbags and other things like change purses and journals that they would be able to sell. I am so excited to be a part of this ministry and so grateful for my mother and the many hours she spent pouring into me.
If you are interested in any of the products, please email or let me know. The money helps support the girls by providing a home and a new source of income away from the bars. Center three has six girls now. We’ve gained two new girls since we started at the beginning of this month, and one of them came with a three-week old baby…so precious!
