While we had high hopes for 2021, pandemic restrictions continued to stall our efforts. We had hoped to begin training our Kihihi group in catering, and hoped to continue trainings throughout the year with other groups. However, lock-downs stalled all trainings.
In May, we realized things were not progressing as we had hoped, so we shifted focus and made the best out of the situation. We set up the offices, and maintained contact with all of our groups in order to better understand their needs. Over the summer, two extremely vulnerable groups struggled more than most. Neither community is able to farm, and most people had been unable to work for over a year. We were able to distribute some food relief in order to get families through the difficult time. We also provided potato seed to another group who needed help starting their farm.
As gathering restrictions continued, we decided it was time to set up the shops at our headquarters. We have four retail spaces, and plan on setting them up so we can train small groups in trade skills. The first shop will be a bakery, followed by a crafts shop, a tailor, and a hair salon. Each of these skills have been requested by our groups, and will allow women to earn a consistent income. Though the last year has been slow, we have high hopes for the next year.
Bakery updates are coming soon!
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