We started a new program this year: to provide sewing machines to those who’ve completed the tailoring program and who’ve excelled in their skills. Panchsheel Ashram School offers tailoring as an option for the life-skills program at the school. In addition, they offer carpentry, computers and electrical engineering. The two tailoring teachers chose ten students to provide examples of their work to be evaluated and, if their skills were proven, to receive a sewing machine.
I spent the morning with the ten students as they worked on a garment of their choice: two students made boys’ button-up shirts, one made pleated pants, several made kurtas for their uniforms and some made pleated uniform dresses. Each was skilled and patient with the process. They work on treadle machines, so they do don’t need to depend on electricity to work.
Needless to say I was very impressed with their hard work and skills and all were approve to receive a sewing machine. Ten new USHA machines were purchased and given to eight young women and two young men.
These machines are not just functional, but they provide a future for the student and their whole family. It - along with their training and initiative - provides a way for the family to earn a living, to support themselves ad their families and to provide a necessary service to the community.
Many thanks to Loreen Brown, Board Member, and her friends who participated in her Facebook Birthday Fundraiser and to Walnut UMC’s “Trick or Treat” Offering.