Imagine going to work one day only to find out once you got there, that you no longer had a job.  I’m sure this is a reality that many people can relate to right now during this difficult economy we’re finding ourselves in here in North American.  But what we may NOT be able to relate to, is the reasoning behind the job loss.

Women in Antigua Guatemala woke up every morning to go into an apparel factory where they worked long hours and were not paid fair wages.  They were excited when they heard rumors of new labor laws that would work in their favor.  They would no longer have to work the painstakingly long hours, and they would earn a more fair wage.  Instead, they went into work one morning, and there were no jobs for them.  The owners of the factory made the decision to outsource their business to Honduras where they would be able to take advantage of their lack of labor laws.

It left these Guatemalan women without jobs, or ways to provide for their families.  A company who’s owner had a vision for these women, decided to do something about the problem.  The company started a small factory for those women to work, producing bags and wallets made out of billboards.  Billboards are now made of a sort of vinyl like material.  When the billboards are taken down, they clean them, and cut them up and create wonderful bags and wallets out of them.  These women work normal hours, and are paid fair wages.  They’re accomplishing 2 really good things.  They’re upcycling the billboards AND they’ve given jobs to women who desperately need them!  We’re excited to help support this company and distribute these products.

Jeff and a few of our friends of Plywood People had the opportunity about a month ago to go visit these women in the factory and celebrate their hard work. Stay tuned for a video explaining the products, and introducing you to our friends in Guatemala!