Recently I came across a post about Craft Hope, an organization that encourages people to send handmade items to others in need. They post a project every few months and give the details on what to make and where to send your finished products. As I have craft supplies coming out of my ears, this totally caught my eye – what better way to use up all this extra stuff than to spread a little goodwill?
Craft Hope just recently released their 12th project – handmade bracelets for the orphans of Russia. I had no idea how bad the conditions are for these kids – 60% of female orphans in Russia become prostitutes. It’s terribly sad to think of all the love and affection these kids are missing out on. You can read all about the situation on Craft Hope’s site here, but here’s a little excerpt:
When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, it’s shaky orphan-care system also fell. Alcohol consumption increased 10 times the U.S. level. The instances of divorce also climbed, along with the HIV-infection rate, which is now one of the highest in the world. And, according to a 2007 UNICEF report, the annual number of children without parental care in Russian ‘has more than doubled over the last 10 years, despite falling birth rates.’ Currently, there are over 750,000 children in the orphanage system and hundreds of thousands more living in the streets.
See how just a little bit of handmade love would really be a bright spot for these kids?
Want to participate, too? If you need some ideas, here are some great bracelet tutorials that I’ve come across. Some of these involve fabric because I have fabric scraps taking over my house and I’d love to use a few up.
Sailor’s Knot Bracelets from the Etsy Blog
Popsicle Stick Bracelets from Suzy’s Artsy Craftsy Sitcom
Survival Bracelets from Instructables (this one’s great for boys!)
Jersey Knit Bracelets from V and Co.
Reversible Fabric Cuff Bracelet from the Creative Maven
Braided Fabric Bracelet from Everything Etsy
I’m excited about this one because I can easily make most of these while relaxing on the couch at night, and even Bridget (who is almost 4) can make a few simple beaded bracelets. We’ve been trying to teach her about giving to others who are less fortunate and this will be a great lesson.
Go on over and like Craft Hope on Facebook so you can get the details, or visit their website and take a look around. This project ends June 15th, so you have plenty of time to kick it middle-school style and make some friendship bracelets for some kiddos who’d love to have them!
PS: I ordered the Craft Hope book last month and it is full of simple, adorable projects along with information on where to send donations. Most of the projects would be an awesome activity for a church group, MOPS group, or even a group of kiddos.
PPS: That link to the book is an affiliate link, so if you buy it I get a teeny tiny percentage. Just thought I’d let you know.
