Artisan Update from India

Seeking Support for Covid Response

I will confess, for the first couple of weeks or more, our response to the second wave of Covid in India was emotional: the sense of anxiety and helplessness when you can’t be on the ground to assist was all-consuming. India has been hit hard by a second and more deadly wave of Covid that is ravaging the country. Owing to severe shortage of medical supplies and hospital beds, states around the country are reporting record daily cases and a mounting death toll.

We appreciate that some of you reached out to check in and seek ways to support artisan groups. In the last few days, we have been talking to group representatives. The Covid impact differs depending on the region as well as if artisans had workshop-based or home-based work. While artisans working from home are able to continue some work and earn hourly wages, workshops in most regions are closed down. But in every conversation, group representatives said it will be most helpful for them to continue receiving orders with a bit more flexibility on delivery timelines.

 

While here at Sustainable Threads we plan to offer more production opportunities, we’re also considering helping and providing immediate assistance in the 2 projects mentioned below. If you, your friends or family wish to help, we invite you to consider supporting these efforts.

Dry Food Provisions*

The food packets will include non-perishables - rice, flour, oil, lentils, sugar, turmeric and cardamom. Each packet costs $15 (helps a family of 4 with provisions for 2 weeks) and in the first leg they are planning to support 100 families. So, for one month’s supply the total support required is $3000. This project is organized by our physically challenged artisan groups.

Artisan Support Fund*

This fund, as an immediate response to the crisis, is for essential Covid medicines and oxygen supply for artisan communities. We are seeking a total of $3000 to be divided among a few groups. Local leaders have been requested to apply for medical help for their most needy artisans requiring treatment and they will be responsible for managing, reporting and presenting bills. In each case decisions will be taken by the organizational leaders.