It felt like an old-fashioned quilting bee. Except we were in Haiti, and we weren't quilting. Two weeks ago today, while their children played nearby, I was sitting with the ladies in Haiti making these little felt pins. Their goal is to raise enough money to build a small 'gift shop' near their church so they'll have a place to sell their handcrafts and soaps and food creations to traveling groups who come through every week or so.
And I don't want to let an earthquake get in the way of that. I know the church structure wasn't damaged. And all reports so far are that the ladies are still alive. This could be just the empowerment they need to begin rebuilding their lives after so much tragedy. The pins are listed in the Haiti By Hand etsy shop. They are beautifully colorful and organic and authentically Haitian--just like their creators. If these sell out I'm pretty sure I have more (this is where you find out that I'm still trying to unpack my luggage from over a week ago).
And SO many other things going on around here. I'm blown away by the stories that continue to be told on CNN. Horrific ones and heartmending ones--they are all a part of this story. Keep reaching and praying.
Tomorrow you get to meet Berta. You are going to love her and that's all I will say for now.
My husband said, there are 4 people with
family in Haiti, on his ship. I know there are starting a fundraiser, i will be posting on my blog. I'd like to add your link, as well~
Posted by: Ellen | 14 January 2010 at 17:55
These are ADORABLE!! I wrote a post about you today and put a link:)
Leslie
Posted by: Leslie | 14 January 2010 at 18:16
Rebecca, I just tried to purchase a pin but unfortunately it can't be shipped to Canada; I am determined to help though so will watch for future fundraising efforts of yours. It is all so very sad....
Posted by: Jillayne | 14 January 2010 at 18:35
These are precious. I would love to help but unfortunately, I cannot pay $50 for something like this. I can't even purchase your items because they are priced so high (not like they used to be!). Would love to purchase more, but just can't. Some of us are really struggling financially, even to the point of barely hanging on to our homes. I know that's nothing compared to what happened in Haiti, but I would have loved to buy one of these to help in my own small way. At $50 each, I just can't!
Posted by: AJ Morrison | 14 January 2010 at 19:32
Everything is sold! Wonderful!
Posted by: Cindy L. | 15 January 2010 at 00:13
Imagine how much could be achieved with a whole army of 'Rebeccas'? More than just 'supporting' charitable deeds for people in need, you act - you meet people, do constructive things, things that in turn give these sweet people dignity and skills to help pull themselves out of the situation many were born to.
Bravo to you Rebecca and to all the generous, special people who support your Haitian friends with their purchases.
Posted by: Melanie Dooley | 15 January 2010 at 01:14
Those Haitian pins are wonderful and I would love to buy one if you find anymore. I've been glued to the television coverage too. My heart goes out to everyone in Haiti. Thanks for keeping us posted.
xo
jeanne
Posted by: Jeanne | 15 January 2010 at 07:21
Like many who find inspiration from your art and your heart, I believe the opening of the Haiti Etsy shop is your most heartwarming creation to date. So far the shop was wiped clean by the time I arrived but I'll continue to watch for updates. Thank you for using your gifts, talents, and sphere of influence in helping the people of Haiti.
Posted by: Sue@MyArtsDesire | 15 January 2010 at 08:48
Rebecca, just to think you were there just days before this all happened. Watching CNN last night and seeing a 15 day old baby being treated for a head wound tore my heart to bits. I cried. Then donated through World Vision. I didn't make it to purchase those (simply crafted) felt pins (with a very complicated story), but will do my bit to support the shop with any future postings..
Love the work you do. You're heart is felt by many.
blessings,
Francesca
Posted by: Francesca Di Leo | 15 January 2010 at 09:39
Thank you for sharing your heart and your stories...my heart aches as I hear of the sadness and devestation that is surrounding Haiti. I just wanted to share that I think it is a blessing that God is using you in this way. He knew you would be there before these earthquakes, He knew you would be coming back to help support the people you now call family and He knew you would be an instrument in the most tragic circumstance on this island. You are a blessing. We are praying alongside you. May God's peace and provision be on these people's hearts...I pray God's sends down the manna...It's so hard to comprehend how such tragedy can occur, but I pray people can put their trust in the Lord who is able and mighty to save! (Zeph 3:17)
Posted by: melissa | 16 January 2010 at 16:02