Glen Ellyn's Re:new Project sells holiday gifts with meaning
2020 has been a challenging year to say the least. Many are struggling as we push pause on our lives to keep others safe.
At Re:new Project, a nonprofit store and studio in downtown Glen Ellyn that provides job training skills and employment to local refugee women, this new reality rings true this holiday season.
Refugee women who have struggled and overcome many obstacles on their journey to the United States continue to show their resilience as they face an uncertain time in our world.
Earlier this year, Re:new Project pivoted from making products that they sell in their storefront on online store, and made over 7,000 Centers for Disease Control-compliant face masks that were donated to essential and first responder organizations like Hephzibah Children's Organization in Oak Park, Smith Village Senior Living Community in Chicago, the Children's Hospital in Denver, and many more.
Today, the Re:new Project at 483 N. Main St. continues to donate masks while also making beautiful handbags, jewelry and accessories that they sell in their storefront and online store.
As the holidays quickly approach, 2020 is the perfect time to give a gift with meaning.
Each of your purchases allow refugees in the community to have free sewing and English as a Second Language classes along with employment.
Chicago Fair Trade certified and made from upcycled, donated materials, each product is lovingly handcrafted by our refugee artisans and one-of-a-kind.
In addition to Re:new's handmade products, this year they also offer their product partner items such as candles, soap, bath bombs, ornaments, tea, coffee, and necklaces, all from organizations across North America that support refugees.
"I love it here. I like sewing, I like learning something new. I like being with people here!," saidJalila, a sewing student from Sudan.
As 2020 comes to a close and many celebrate the holidays in new ways this year, please consider giving a gift with purpose, meaning, and hope.
For information, visit www.renewproject.org.