Changing lives in Poi Pet

It all begins with the collection of excess and unwanted cotton from garment factories in Cambodia.   Carpets for Communities are setting an example, helping families who are in danger of being trapped in the cycle of poverty so common to the region.   By providing ongoing income for parents (mostly single mothers), children are able to return to school and improve their long-term livelihoods.

Some material is purchased, but much is donated from industry in the region.   Used rice sacks and excess cotton are combined into carpets to be sold in Australia and beyond, in a practical approach that reduces child labour and vulnerability to child trafficking.   This empowering process is making a positive change for dozens of families.   

The tangible impact this program has had is documented on the Carpets for Communities website.  A further read tells the story of how proceeds from sales are re-invested into the communities where participating families live; mostly around the border town of Poi Pet in Cambodia.

There is also an interview at Soul Economy that makes for some interesting reading.