Mali Project Update

Hello All,

Wanted to let you know that the Kayes (Mali) sewing project, “Morceau par morceau,” is coming together piece by piece. The Sisters hired two teachers to work with me because interest was so great and the classes (one in the morning and one in the afternoon) have increased from 6 to 12 students each. The start up funding from the church has been handed over (see attached photo of one of the teachers, Anna, Sister Marie Noelle, and Project Advisor, Therese.) Also attached is a photo of Anna and the other teacher, Sali, with their first patchwork projects. We are having a great time preparing for the classes that start September 15th and getting to know each other.

Today, Anna, Sister Marie Noelle, and I cleaned the classroom and painted about 20 metal tables. We made a joke that I was no longer white because I had so much blue paint on me! Thanks to a couple of group decisions, we are still within the shoestring budget even though the choice was made to hire two teachers and accommodate more students. The Sisters have located an armoire for us to use so we don’t have that expense. And we decided not to buy a refrigerator at this time but to keep water cold in coolers. Everyone is grateful for the love and support from Canada and especially the Fellowship.

And I am feeling very fortunate to have your support and the wonderful opportunity to work on this project.

Will write again once the classes are up and running. Hope you can use some of this for the website and/or newsletter. Let me know if you need any more information.

Cheers,
Karen