A note from Jesus is Key

  I was blessed enough to get to be a small part of this beautiful mission a couple of years ago over in Haiti, even though sewing is not in my wheelhouse.  What this group is trying to accomplish in Haiti has not been a very easy task. But in spite of the flooding, lack of power, gas and funds they still continue to move forward, trying to help these ladies learn a trade, so that they can help provide for their families.  Jesus is Key is planning to include “Sewing Hope” next year for some of their products, like Bible covers, rosaries etc. If you have any way that you can help “Sewing Hope” please contact Monie or Susie.

~Shari Kempf

Introducing Sewing Hope

In September, 2019, the St. Jacques Sewing School in Plaine du Nord, Haiti reopened for the school year as a restructured, two year Sewing Program with student sponsorship being provided through the St. Joseph Church Haiti Outreach Team.  St. Joe, located in Evansville, IN, is the sister parish to St. Jacques and will partner with two instructors at the school, a coordinator and a parish sponsor to assure the success of the program. The restructured sewing program is called “Sewing Hope”.

Why Restructure?

The fundamental purpose of the restructuring was to ensure that students and instructors have the tools, supplies, fabrics and funds required to effectively teach and to learn the seamstress trade.

The two room sewing school was originally built in 2010 above the elementary school office.  Over the years, the school has fallen into disrepair and decline, lacking the supplies and funds to renovate or teach the trade adequately.  In August, 2019, the classrooms were painted, furniture replaced, machines purchased, supplies acquired, and tools provided to rehabilitate this much-needed educational facility.  The school opened for the 2019-20 school year as “Sewing Hope”, with 21 students attending its first year.

Sewing Hope’s Vision 

The Sewing Hope vision is to equip students to learn the sewing trade.  Through the program, students will learn skills enabling them to obtain employment as a seamstress, provide for their families, and promote sustainable change within their homes and their community.  

Acquiring a skill or trade is vital to breaking the cycle of poverty in Haiti.  We also believe that by adding “Enrichment Days” throughout the year – presentations, discussions and Bible Studies geared toward issues facing young Haitians (women, in particular) – students will receive a well-rounded educational experience and a boost in self-confidence and self-worth.

As students are sponsored to participate in the program, not only are they provided for financially to complete the course, but they are prayed over by the sponsor and by the St Joseph Outreach Team and church family.

How Can YOU Help?

There are several ways to come alongside Sewing Hope and its students. 

1. PRAY for those affiliated with the program – students, instructors, families, sponsors.
2. GIVE a one-time donation to purchase supplies and other necessary furnishings.
3. COMMIT to a monthly sponsorship of a student for one year ($25/month or $300/year).  
4. SUPPORT the students during one of the team trips by visiting the classroom, preparing a simple Bible Study lesson, or plan a short lecture.  If you can’t travel, consider sending fabrics, supplies, and notes of encouragement with the team. 

What the Students are Saying

Contact

Supported by:

St. Joseph Church
Haiti Outreach Team
6202 W St Joe Rd
Evansville, IN  47720