Fair Trade Friday: How to Change the World, Right Where You Are (Plus, An Amazing Giveaway!)
UPDATE: A winner was drawn using a random number generator. Holly is our winner! Thanks to everyone who shared about this giveaway, and spread the word about Fair Trade Friday!
I was scrolling through my Facebook newsfeed yesterday when I read something so tragic, that I thought my heart might drop into my stomach.
A friend of mine in Haiti posted a status update about a young mom in her village who felt like life was no longer worth living. My friend found this mom stumbling around in the village, with blood on her shirt. The young mom smelled like Clorox, and tears ran down her cheeks.
Horrified at what she was seeing, my friend asked her what happened. The young mom told her she had poured Clorox down her throat, to kill herself.
My friend came to the young mom’s aid, and we’re all praying that this mama will be okay.
Later, my friend told the mom that if she couldn’t be strong for herself, she had to be strong for her children. To which the young mom replied:
“It’s because of my children I want to die. I can’t give them anything, I don’t have food to give them, and they look at me needing food, but I don’t have it. I love them so much but I can’t do anything for them, nothing.”
Her words hit me hard, while I sat in the comfort of my own home — where the supper dishes were stacked in the sink and the glow of the fire filled the living room. I imagined Lydia and Anna looking to me and Scott, begging for food we couldn’t give. We’ve never had to worry about that.
Then I imagined the millions of young moms all over the world who deal with that appalling reality every. single. day.
I was going to find a statistic to try to illustrate how many millions of mothers are living that horrendous kind of existence. But then I remembered real stories always have more impact than stats.
And I also wanted to tell you the good news, to tell you about a way that we can all make a difference for women like that young mom.
It starts with a brilliant idea that God gave my friend Kristen Welch a few months ago.
Do you know Kristen? She is the founder of Mercy House, author of Rhinestone Jesus, and the amazing blogger behind We are THAT Family. Several months ago, God gave Kristen an overwhelming, overpowering desire to empower women all over the world with opportunity and employment in the name of Jesus.
And that’s how Fair Trade Friday was born. You are going to LOVE this:
Fair Trade Friday is a monthly membership club that delivers a box of high quality items to your door by the first Friday of the month. The items in the box are fairly traded and provide employment to women all over the world. 100% of the proceeds from each box goes to the empowerment of impoverished women as an avenue to introduce them to the Gospel. Plus, the items that arrive in your Fair Trade Friday box are absolutely adorable.
Kristen sent me a box this week, and ONE OF YOU will WIN everything she sent to me. I won’t lie: It’s hard to part with this stuff, but giveaways are just too fun! Besides, I need your help in spreading the word about Fair Trade Friday. The giveaway is your incentive to help me spread the word! (Giveaway details below.)
Here’s what came in the box:
The box includes: a handmade market tote and block-printed keychain by Joyn; a bastille bracelet and necklace by Mata Traders; and a reusable gift bag by Friends of Mercy Goods.
GIVEAWAY DETAILS
Here’s how you can win this box of goodness:
1 – Leave a comment in the comment box of this blog post. (1 entry)
2 – In that comment, tell us where you’ve shared on social media (i.e., Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest. Each social-media share will count as 1 entry.) We are hoping for a LOT of shares, to help spread the word about this brilliant little club that changes lives! Let’s do this!)
3 – “Like” Fair Trade Friday on Facebook, and let me know in the comments that you’ve done so. (If you ALREADY like FTF on Facebook, let me know. You’ll automatically be entered for a chance to win.)
I will add up all of your entries, and will randomly draw for a winner NEXT FRIDAY. I will notify the lucky winner by email.
DETAILS ON HOW TO JOIN THE CLUB
Why: In the last six months, FTF has provided more than 1,000 jobs in 12 countries, helping provide product development and encouraging small nonprofits by becoming their biggest customer. “Fair Trade” ensures that products were made by artisans in fair working conditions who were being paid a fair wage.
How Much Does this Cost: The monthly subscription is $31.99. FTF also offers one-time boxes for $35. An Earring of the Month Club is launching soon.
What Would I Do with All this Jewelry? Keep some for yourself! Stock up for months, and give fair-trade gifts to all your friends, family members, school teachers, Sunday school teachers, and more for birthdays, Mother’s Day and Christmas. I’m guessing that this is probably one of the biggest reasons people might not order a Fair Trade Friday box —-> Most of us don’t “need” another piece of jewelry, another bag, or another scarf. But these women really do NEED us to buy it! This is a win-win for all of us! 🙂
I am happy to support Fair Trade Friday, and I am grateful to each of you for helping Kristen spread the word about a life-changing organization. For more details, visit Fair Trade Friday. Go here to sign up. Shop here.
“We can’t change the world, but we can change the world for one person.”
Praying now! #fairtradefriday
I’ll enter your name in the drawing, Anita. Be sure to let me know if you’ve shared on any social media channels, for more chances to win. 🙂
Would LOVE to share this and the beautiful pieces with many friends! I “liked” it on facebook and also posted to pinterest!
I entered your name THREE times! Thanks for the generosity of your social media shares, and your comment here, Katie.
I just LOVE Fair Trade Friday items. They make great little giveaways at our women’s events at church, too. Raising awareness is what it’s all about… Thank you for sharing and spreading the word!
What a great idea, Jennifer. Thank you! I’ve entered your name in the giveaway drawing, and if you’ve shared on social media, be sure to let me know! If not, that’s okay too. 🙂
This is so amazing! What a terrific idea and I would love to sign up!! I shared on Twitter, liked on Facebook and pinned! Seriously-LOVE this!
Susan! Yay! Thank you so much for sharing so generously. I will enter your name for each share on social media, plus this comment. 🙂 … Yeah, I’m pretty pumped up about what Kristen Welch is doing. She’s a gem!
I am praying today for this message to reach many hearts and that we will not just sit back and neglect to help these women in need! I liked it on Facebook and shared it on Facebook. Thank you for sharing this with us!!
Thank you, thank you Heather. I’ve included your name in the drawing, and also, what you’ve done by sharing is spread the work of this ministry out into the world. That’s more than I can do alone. This is a great way to share the good work of the Kingdom, together!
I LOVE this post and box!!
I shared on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, and Pinterest!!
I already “Like” Fair Trade Friday on Facebook!
Sweet! I’ll enter your name for this, and for the other social media shares. You’re rockin’ it, girl.
Thank you! I strongly believe in this subscription and company! I already added it to my “Subscription Box List” on my website, and I’m going to “Share” this post every day in every way until the giveaway is over!! xo Awesome article and post!
P.S. I am a born-again Christian, and I would be honored to review this box on my website.
I LOVE FTF!! My box this month was the first one that I got to keep all to myself (gave most of the first two boxes away as Christmas gifts), and I couldn’t stop smiling as I opened everything.
Also, I shared on FB, tweeted, and pinned. And I liked FTF on FB (well, that happened months ago, but yeah.)
And if I won, I’d give away everything but the bracelet to a dear friend who needs a pick-me-up while her husband is deployed. I REALLY love that bracelet!
Oh, fantastic, Angela. I have to confess, it’s hard to part with this stuff, but I know more great things are on the way. I’m signing up today!
I love what you’re doing with the product that you receive. Very cool. xo
One of my friends just signed up for the club because she read this post! You’re doing good work, lady!
I have been sitting on the fence about signing up. Thank you for your perspective – it opens my eye to the need. I have shared on FB and pinterest and liked FTF on FB already. Thanks for the chance to win!
I had been on the fence, too. I think I fell in the category of, “I don’t really NEED anymore jewelry, bags, etc.” But then I remembered, they need ME. Their jobs depend on our purchases. Now, Kristin, I don’t say that to pressure you. PINKIE PROMISE! This is a no-guilt, no-pressure environment. You’ve already been so generous with your shares. That’s huge! But what I’m expressing to you is this: In my own way, I totally gets the fence-sitting!
Again, thank you!!!!
Love this, Jennifer! Shared on Twitter and liked the Facebook page. Will share again during the day. Thank you for the honor of partnering!
Love you, Lisa! You are always so generous to share my posts, and I know that your generosity today will make a big difference in spreading the word about this amazing ministry. Had you heard of Fair Trade Friday before?
Love you too, sweet Jennifer! Fair Trade Friday is new to me, so I’m grateful to know and spread the word. I’m grateful for you and Kristen. BIG hugs and bunches of blessings to you both!
Thank you for doing the giveaway! I purchased a box at Christmas and gave it to a dear friend…I loved everything and really wanted to keep things, but that’s not why I bought it–haha…I have shared on FB, Twitter, and Pinterest and have already liked FTF on FB. Thanks for the chance to win!!
Kelly … I’m feelin’ your words. I am having a hard time parting with my box of goodies. But then again, I’ll get a new one next month. I signed up for the club today. 🙂
I already “Like” FTF on Facebook and I’ve also shared on Pinterest and Facebook. FTF is amazing and their products are beautiful!
Fantastic. We’re so grateful for you support and generosity in sharing on social media. It really helps get the word out.
Loved reading this post & seeing the beautiful items. I shared it on Facebook & Twitter. I also “liked” Fair Trade Friday. Thank you for bringing this to my attention!
I have been a facebook fan of Fairtrade Friday from the beginning. Great idea and love it! I have been sharing my boxes each month on my facebook page for Stretchingittotravel and on twitter. Thanks for promoting Fairtrade Friday!
Awesome. I clicked on your link. I love the fingerless gloves!
What a great idea! LOVE all this fun stuff. I might just have to cave and get my ears pierced to wear all the cute earrings people are selling!
I shared on FB and will tweet, too! Oh, and I liked FTF on Facebook!
Oh yeah! Do it. Pierce those ears! 🙂
I joined the Fair Trade Friday club earlier this month after trying the one time trial back in December I missed out on January’s box, so I’d love to win this, plus I love sharing these wares with my friends. 🙂 Shared on Facebook.
I already like Fair Trade Friday on Facebook as Lisa Marie Gerber Beech.
Wonderful, Lisa. Thank you. I will add up all of your shares (you are so generous!) and put your name on the drawing for each entry. 🙂
Love this idea. I would not normally subscribe to a monthly thing like this but the ideas on gifting the items makes it much more logical, plus of course the support it provides the women. Thanks for promoting!
I so agree. I have birthdays coming up — for a couple of dear friends, my mother-in-law, my mom. And then of course, Mother’s Day, fun giveaways here on the blog, and just those special little gifts you want to give to bless someone who’s having a tough day.
And, I also shared on Twitter and liked on FB 🙂 And I’ll probably order my own box…
https://stretchingittotravel.wordpress.com/2014/12/11/fair-trade-friday-december/
http://instagram.com/p/xxgBjwwb70/
Is that a bracelet? I loved the jewelry. I think we got most of the same stuff! Absolutely lovin’ this.
It is a braclet that matches the purple bead necklace similar to what you received. I LOVE it and am wearing it today. Fun to wear items that not everyone else can buy at Target.
I’ve been wanting a box and finally ordered one today. 🙂 I told myself I’d give at least two of the items away because I really don’t need more things, either. But I love how it helps others…and that’s what makes it worth it! I liked the Facebook page and tweeted, too. 🙂
Yay, yay, yay! Thank you so much, Mel, for sharing. I’m so eager to share about this, and so grateful for others like you who share the passion and help get the word out. It takes a village, eh? xo
Shared on twitter! 🙂
Sweet! Thanks so much, Karen!
I’m already a Facebook fan and would love to win! I love Fair Trade Friday!!!
Great! Thank you, Karen.
Shared on Facebook and pinterest, already a fan of Fair Trade Friday- got a box before Christmas to give out as gifts- love the beautiful items! Thanks for the opportunity to win one!
Wonderful. I’m going to stock up, too, and give as gifts all year long.
What a great idea, I love it! 🙂 Shared on Facebook and Pinterest to help spread the word and “liked” the FB page as well. Thanks for continuing to shine The Light, Jennifer!
I am such a fan of Fair Trade Friday. Thanks for sharing, Wendy.
Love seeing women partner together to empower other women!
I have ‘liked’ the Fair Trade Friday’ Facebook page!
I tweeted. 🙂
Woot! Thank you, thank you!!
Sharing on Facebook and Pinterest. Already “like” the Facebook page!
Grateful for the generosity of your shares!
I tweeted and liked on FB.
Awesome. Thanks.
I tweeted!
I already liked on Facebook!
Shared on Pintrest!
Yay! Thank you.
This is a wonderful idea to get the word out! This mothers story broke my heart.
Thank you, Terra. I just found out that the mother is doing okay today, but needs a long-term solution to the abject poverty that she’s living in. Praying for answers!!
I just can’t even imagine and I’m praying for this mama and her children.
Love this Jennifer! I have never heard of this ministry before, but am so thankful you shared about it! I shared this on FB and Pinterest.
It’s pretty amazing, Rachel. The products are so adorable, and high-quality.
I liked Fair Trade Friday on FB, shared their page on my FB and pinned on Pinterest!!
THANK YOU!!
Hi Jennifer! I already ‘like’ FTF on FB, shared the giveaway on Twitter, FB and on my blog page on FB, and pinned it on Pinterest. Thanks for hosting this giveaway!
Wow! Thanks for all the social media love. I love this community here, how we help share the good things that others are doing. I’m so impressed by Fair Trade Friday, and knew that you fine people would help me spread the word. HUGE THANKS!
I already like FTF on FB!!
Praying for this mother…I can’t imagine her pain and struggle. And am praying that God reaches her in a BIG way so that she knows how much she is loved!
I know. It’s heartbreaking. 🙁 …. I found out a couple hours ago that she’s doing ok, physically, but she still have this huge economic burden, and so do millions of others. I love that Fair Trade Friday is fighting against that.
I pinned the this post to my giveaway board and shared on FB
This is AMAZING! Wow. If I win the box I’ll give it away on my own blog–one box will keep spreading the word! I liked the facebook page, shared your post from there on my own feed and tweeted your post. Thanks for this opportunity, Jennifer!
I liked the Fair Trade Fridays Facebook page and shared it on my page. I think this is a positive way to help other mothers. I can’t imagine not having food for my children, or what I would do if I couldn’t afford to feed them. God bless you!!!
I would be thrilled to win!
I would be thrilled to win!
I liked FTF’s Facebook page.
I liked FTF’s Facebook page.
This is such a beautiful concept! Thank you for sharing. I shared with all my peeps on FB, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest. I also liked Fair Trade Friday on Facebook. This is amazing, whether or not I win!
You are the winner!
Oh I love this, my friend! I love the heart behind Fair Trade Friday and from what I have seen online, each month the package comes filled with all kinds of loveliness!
I liked their fb page, and shared the link on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest!
Let’s spread the word!
This is way cooler than Birchbox. Love it and love supporting women and fair trade.
Shared on facebook, twitter, and pinterest and also like the Fair trade Friday facebook page
I make care packages all the time and would love to begin including Fair Trade in my boxes of love. Liked, sharing and heading over to shop. Every drop creates an ocean of good!
Looks beautiful! I liked their FB page, shared about it on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.
Awesome! Shared on facebook.
Love this concept!
What an amazing opportunity for these women! Cannot begin to even imagine not being able to feed my children/grandchildren! Thank you for bringing their plight to our attention! I “like” the FTF page on FaceBook as well. Blessings to you!
Awesome! I like on Facebook and google+ it!
Tweeted! IG-ed Fbed!
Love this so much-an incredible way to support a cause that empowers others and in turn gives them the ability to provide for their families-beautiful!
I follow fair trade Friday on fb-so amazing!
Like their fb page and shared. What a wonderful way to make a difference around the world!
What a privilege to support other women around the world in need of hope, in need of work! I pray for the mom who tried to take her life!
Such a fun idea. I’m sharing your post. Thank you!
What a great thing! Shared your post and liked FTF on Facebook.
I tweeted about the giveaway.
I like FTF on FB.
I shared this post on FB.
I shared this on pinterest.
Thanks for spreading the word!
What a neat concept. I just shared it on FB and Pinterest; and tweeted it.I also liked FTF on FB.
I shared on FB and liked FTF. This is a wonderful idea!
I love hearing about people making a difference like this!~ I happily pinned, shared on Google+ and liked FTF on Facebook as well. God bless them all.
I love Fair Trade Friday and your review! <3
I shared on Twitter! https://twitter.com/thisgracelife/status/557671986672185344
I pinned it to Pinterest! http://www.pinterest.com/pin/275986283390759177/
I shared on Facebook! 🙂
I also already like Fair Trade Friday on Facebook!
I shared on FB. I also grew up in Nigeria, West Africa and have experienced what these women need to live and survive. Courage and peace to them.
I shared on Facebook.
I liked on Facebook.
This is a wonderfully creative idea! Thank you for sharing.
I’ve been a FTF member since the beginning… Love getting great items and making a difference in lives at the same time!
Shared on Facebook
Shared on Twitter.
Like on Facebook.
love love love this! liked on fb, shared on twitter