“A Win-Win Shopping Excursion”
“Christmas is not about capitalism.” Kate Byers, Student Pastor at Edward Church, UCC in Framingham, is grateful for an opportunity to put her words into action.
Byers will be in charge of the Equal Exchange table at the church’s Alternative Gifts Fair on Saturday, December 7th. She will sell chocolate, coffee and tea, all “Fair Trade Certified” to ensure that the farmers who grew it are compensated justly.
Equal Exchange is one of eight organizations supported by Edwards Church’s Second Annual Alternative Gifts Fair. While the products different, the tables share a common theme: all the money raised helps make the world a better place.
“I am excited about the Alternative Gifts Fair,” Kate concludes, “because it makes us think about Christmas, money and helping others in a new light.”
Jen Henley coordinates the Heifer Table. Heifer Project International empowers families and communities with their “pay it forward” model. A struggling family receives a heifer, or another kind of livestock, which enables them to move toward self-sufficiency. The family agrees to give offspring of their gift to another family, passing on the opportunity.
Henley also plans to shop at the Fair. “It means a lot to me that my purchasing empowers those who don’t have a lot of power,” she says, “and helps give a boost to someone who just needs a hand up.”
Kim Wronski’s table offers more animal-related giving, through NEADS (National Education for Assistance Dog Services). Proceeds from the sale of dog treats, cat toys, and “Furry Friends” calendars will support NEADS, based in Princeton, Massachusetts, which trains assistance dogs for people with disabilities and returning veterans, and for service in classrooms, counseling offices, and houses of worship. Edwards Church has a special connection with NEADS, which trained their ministry dog Jeannie.
For the second year, Karen Dolliver and Jeannette Loughman are coordinating the SERRV table. Just as Equal Exchange supports small farmers, SERRV ensures that artisans are paid fairly for their handicrafts. “The sales we have,” Karen says, “give the artisans and farmers a better chance of helping their families afford education and create income opportunities that will help them become successfully independent.”
That philosophy is informs a table run by volunteers from “Empowering Dalit Women of Nepal.” EDWON works with women’s groups to create saving clubs, artists’ coops, and educational opportunities.
The Church World Service Blanket table provides comfort to people hit by disaster. When disasters like the typhoon in the Philippines occur, Church World Service provides blankets for warmth, safety and shelter. Whenever possible, blankets are purchased from local producers, supporting the economy there.
Other tables include photos and cards from the Just Peace Players, which uses drama to raise awareness about justice issues, and wreaths sold by church youth to support mission trips.
“The Alternative Gifts Fair is a win-win for everyone,” Jen Henley concludes, “which sounds like a perfect Christmas to me.”
The Alternative Gifts Fair is being held Saturday, December 7 from 1-4 pm at Edwards Church. For more information or directions, see www.edwardschurch.org or call 508-877-1217.