While in Uganda, one of the most discouraging things that our team witnessed was the society-wide hoplessness of a very hard-working, industrious people group.  While we observed people working very hard nearly everywhere we looked, those same hardworking people were living in abject poverty, barely able to scrape out a subsistence.

 

When we asked our missionary hosts about this situation, we were informed that international embargoes had been placed upon Uganda due to historic corruption in the government.  Thus, with no direct export, the national economy is limited to all internal sources of revenue.  And of course, there is very little in the local economy.

 

One missionary group has found a way to reach past the embargos to take a Ugandan product outside of the borders to bring revenue directly to the needy and industrious citizens of that country. 

 

Ugandan women have long made beautiful paper beads, and have developed an artisan's skill at using the beads in delightful jewelry.  Through the legal means of the missionary institution, these beads are available in America.  And because the trade takes place through the missionaries, there is very little overhead involved - brining nearly all of the profit directly to the craftswomen in Uganda.  This industry allows these women to buy their families health car, safe housing, and education for their children.  If these women are part of a cohesive family unit, their husband's income brings this family above subsistence to stable living.

 

BEADS FOR LIFE is the name of this industry.  And you can host an in-home party, sharing the story of the women who make the beads and supporting their insentive to move ahead in their society.

 

Here is a link to the Beads for Life site. 

 

Plan your party right away so that you and your friends can give more than just another gift this Christmas.  You can give life and livelihood.