Jason Simmons
Festival sale invests in the lives of artisans around the world
(Metuchen, NJ) – On Saturday October 27th from 8AM to 3PM FUSP will hold their 1st annual International Gift Fair at the Metuchen High School in conjunction with the Local Non-Profit, Breaking the Chain. The fair offers a unique opportunity for citizens to invest in their world by shopping fair trade. Fair trade works to provide low-income artisans with a living wage for their work, ensures environmental sustainability and safe and healthy working conditions. This is a better alternative to the many products made in sweatshops or other unsafe working environments.
The purpose of the sale is to return to the true meaning of gift giving and receiving by offering gifts made from the heart and by human hands. We can avoid supporting sweatshops and other unjust trade practices by buying fair trade. “The gifts we have for sale are truly unique and knowing that they help support some of the most disadvantaged people around the world make them even more special,” says sale organizer, Jason Simmons. “By holding this sale we are giving people the chance to help others feed, clothe and educate themselves and their families by ensuring that they receive a fair wage for their work.”
Metuchen High School Educator Evan Robbins engages students in learning about fair trade, economic issues, and child slavery that is occurring in many parts of the world. Students will be displaying information about social justice issues affecting people around the world such as AIDS, poverty, hunger and information about fair trade. The youth will also be selling food and wrapping gifts as a fundraiser.
Visitors can enjoy a free cup of fair trade coffee, shop and learn about their power as consumers. The event is free and open to all.
Sales like this one, sponsored by FUSP, owe their success to dedicated volunteers who set up the crafts, serve as sales clerks, educate shoppers and clean up following the event.