According to a recent article in Muncie, Indiana's Star Press, "the National Retail Federation expects the average consumer to spend $791.10 this holiday season, up from $738.11 last year."If you're going to spend that kind of cash, why not give a gift that gives back? Global Girlfriend is an online fair trade store that sells handmade gifts made by women's non-profit programs and cooperatives.
Global Girlfriend's founder, Stacey Edgar, received a
Microsoft Start Something Amazing Awards Honorable Mention, and was named the 2005 Aveeno Woman with Organic Style.
The creators of Global Girlfriend's merchandise come from all over the world:
Brazil, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Nicaragua, South Africa, Thailand, the United States and Vietnam. In the United States, for example, products are made by women from The Enterprising Kitchen and WomanCraft in Chicago, Women's Bean Project in Denver, Appalachian by Design in West Virginia, Thistle Farms in Nashville and Rosie's Place in Boston.
I'd love to compile a list of stores with gifts that give back. What are some other online stores where you can buy do * good gifts during the holidays?
Photo Credit: Recycled Plastic Beach Tote from Global Girlfriend site.
holiday
shopping
fair trade
