Tabitha Hong Kong
Cottage goods are a primary income-earning opportunity for women and families working their way out of poverty. Tabitha trains and employs embroiderers, seamstresses, weavers, silversmiths and others who make products by hand. It employs large numbers of people who were previously without work, and its profits support Tabitha’s administration and long-term sustainability.
Cambodia historically had many indigenous crafts, including silk weaving. Indeed Cambodian silk is considered to be one of the finest quality silks. Sadly, during the Pol Pot regime, in the 1970s through to the 1990s, many of these traditional skills were lost.
Tabitha Cambodia operates a cottage industry program and trains embroiderers, seamstresses, weavers, and silversmiths, amongst others. In the last fiscal year, we were able to assist 289 families with 2,312 dependents to increase their income from an average of $50 per month to an average of $200 per month.
The development of the cottage industry is important for a number of reasons. Many of the seamstresses previously worked on the streets, having no regular income or security for their families. The cottage industry provides them with both a sustainable skill and a regular source of income. Whilst many of the cottage industry workers come to the Tabitha headquarters to work, many of the women also work from home, allowing them to be at home with their children while still earning income.
The cottage industry products are made to a high quality and are sold locally in Cambodia and also through Tabitha volunteer networks across the world. The product ranges from home accents, scarves, accessories, handbags, beddings, cusion covers, and toys.
Silk products are sold at community fairs, churches, offices and schools. To learn more about hosting a sale, please contact us.
