Mali Project Update

Hi Don, Helmut, Marilynn, and Louise,

Just wanted to let you know that I and the $$$ arrived safely. The Sisters are in Bamako and will be back Thursday so we will transfer things then. They have selected a coordinator to work with me. Her name is Anna and she has lots of experience making children’s clothes. People are so happy that the Fellowship has supported the project.

One piece of bad news is that Therese, who is helping to advise us on the project, says that there may be many more people signed up for the first session than there is room for and asked if we would consider have two people for each machine rather than small classes with one person for each machine. She said I might get hit in the head!!! That is her way of saying that this is a good thing and people are keen. Not really bad news but will see how expansion sits with Anna and the Sisters. I think 12 in each class is doable but not many more – partly because we want people to have an opportunity to make $$$ later and if we flood the market with too many artisans, we may not be able to provide the market place for them all.

Moussa the tailor who has cleaned and repaired all the machines stopped by yesterday. He donated two huge bags of scraps to the project. Finding material is not going to be a big problem.

Meanwhile, will keep you posted and thanks again for making this happen.

BTW: Helmut, I put in the order for your shirt with Moussa and one for your grandson. Marilynn, I am going to have Moussa make me a blouse and if it goes well, I will order one for you after.

Cheers to all,
Karen