buy a doll, build a bathroom, change the world

Dolls are in the etsy shop! The cotton velour is super soft, they are filled with wool roving and Zoure braids their fabulous hair. Some have beads in their hair, some have bracelets or necklaces made from beads from the market, just like the little girls wear here. All the profits go to the American Women’s Club of Niger (AWC) a non-profit all-volunteer organization that supports grassroots efforts for women and children.

Last year, not only did the AWC help buy a new stove for the orphanage–they were down to two burners and no oven, and they make three meals a day for thirty kids–the AWC also funded projects to build bathrooms at schools.

Studies have shown that at schools without bathrooms, girls–especially adolescents–go home and don’t come back. In our efforts to bring education to a country with 13% literacy, building bathrooms keeps girls in school. Last year, the AWC funded three projects to build bathrooms for less than $1200 per project. Sadly, we had to turn down proposals for lack of funding– by buying a doll you will make a difference.

Also consider making a donation to the AWC, your money goes a long way here. Email me for details.

I took this picture the other day of some girls who live on my street in a hut. Why were they not at school that day?