Camden Rose

The Phoenix of Peru

Just outside Lima, Peru, is a very poor neighborhood named “Paraiso Alto.” The area has no running water, sewage system, clinics, parks or green areas, and many do not have electricity. Despite all this desolation, there is a phoenix that has risen and provides hope and a future.

In 2002, Rurapuk Mothers was started with the goal of providing the women of Paraiso Alto an income by using their craft skills to create unique items. The women of Rurapuk Mothers knit and crochet in their homes and come together twice a week under the direction of a coordinator. Currently, our Market Bag and Doll Hammock is crafted by Rurapuk Mothers with more items, such as Waldorf puppets and play food, to be introduced in the Fall of 2007.

In addition to providing Fair Trade working opportunities, Rurapuk also hosts a Hot Lunch Program that provides a free hot balanced vegetarian lunch ve times a week for the children of Paraiso Alto. Rather than sponsoring an individual child, Rurapuk prefers a sponsorship of $15 USD per month to cover the cost of providing this miracle program. Please contact us at 734-995-1400 so you can learn more about how your organization can help provide nourishment for our youth.