Sewing New Future's handcrafted goods are made by women and girls who have survived or evaded sex trafficking in northern India. These women are now living as artisans, creators and artists with sustainable careers, and have access to education and medical care that’s supported by your purchase.
They work within a community in Najafgarh, on the outskirts of New Delhi. Due to the community’s caste status, the people living here are unable to participate in traditional jobs. To survive, families marry off their daughters at puberty. Once married, women and girls are forced into sex work to sustain themselves and their families. Without education or options, these women spend their lives as prostitutes – even paying a bride price to their own family.
The community wants to change, but it’s difficult to evolve without knowing another way. Sewing New Futures works with women and children to provide paid training and mentorship as they learn about sewing, appliqué, and textiles. With these skills, women gain a sustainable income while applying their creative talent and vision to artisanal work.
The money earned goes toward career training, education, medical care, and social services. Most importantly, sales of these goods benefit the women who are brave enough to disregard their cultural norms and refuse a life of prostitution.