Physically Disabled Weavers’ Initiative

Description
Sustainability
Additional Impacts

There were very few employment opportunities and social services available for handicapped persons historically in India. Unfortunately, physically disabled people continue to face many similar challenges today and as a result of this continued stigma and perception of their physical abilities, this community in particular, faces steep challenges in finding employment.
This small weaving unit was started as a way to circumvent these challenges. Artisans are able to learn skills, which help them to renegotiate their social position in their families and within the broader community. They also have more possibilities to be able to provide education to their children, and to acquire comforts to make their day-to-day tasks easier. At the end of the year, profits are shared with the community. In this way, artisans who are unable to work due to age or the nature of their disabilities, benefit as well.
Sustainability & Fair Trade
- Handwoven on hand-operated looms with little electricity use
- 100% natural cotton
- Reusable - machine washable
- Designed with minimal fabric waste
- Crafted by disabled men and women, who are affected by social stigma and physical challenges
- Skill trainings & capacity building
- Fair, steady wages
- Opportunities for advancement
- School scholarships for children of artisans
- Loan funds
Artisans have access to create better futures for their children. Scholarships are available to pay for their children’s educational expenses. They also have access to a revolving loan fund that can be used by young people from this community to pursue higher education and other study programs.

Physically Disabled Weavers’ Initiative

Availability

Size

Material

Technique

Color

Physically Disabled Weavers’ Initiative

Availability

Size

Material

Technique

Color

Join Our Wholesale Email List