HandCrafting Justice (HCJ) was created in New York City in October 1997 to develop a fair trade marketplace for hand-crafted goods produced at locations sponsored by Good Shepherd Sisters throughout many developing countries. Through the marketing of these hand-crafted goods, HCJ is able to raise awareness of the economic disempowerment faced by women in developing nations. By participating, these women create employment for themselves, allowing them to provide for their families and to improve their own lives.
The Sister Fund grant supported the "Fair Trade Uniform Project," technical support for the organization's Web site and the creation of an inventory system. The Fair Trade Uniform Project worked with women from Leon, Mexico and Nong Khai, Thailand. The women received fair and just wages for their work.
This article updated September 3, 2009