“I come here to show the world that despite all our hardships, we can be productive, innovative, and that we are talented women.”

These pillow covers were custom-made for Red Thread Life by Syrian refugee women in Lebanon.

Each 48cmx48cm pillow cover is hand-embroidered by women who are working in the Basmeh and Zeitooneh Women’s Workshop.  The women’s workshops aim to empower women who currently provide financial support to their families and to help restore their sense of dignity. The workshops provide training in embroidery and subsequently allow the women an opportunity to sell their products. The programs are active in Shatilla and Burj al Barajneh camps. In addition to skills building, the workshops offer women awareness sessions on topics ranging from general health to women’s empowerment and women’s rights and responsibilities in the workplace.

Who you help with your purchase:

In Syria/Lebanon: Each pillow case is handmade by Syrian women who have escaped terrible violence in their homes.  The refugee situation in Lebanon is very, very difficult, and your purchase makes it a little easier for one woman, allowing her to earn an income to provide for her family in dire circumstances.

In the US:  Our shipping department is staffed entirely by women who are in need in the US, women who have had to escape violent situations in their homes.  These women have children who are also benefitting from their mothers being able to care for them while working.