The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities in the Southern region of Saint Lucia has initiated the Hands and Heart Handicraft Project at Balenbouche Estate. The project began on February 1st, 2005 with the main goal to equip persons with disabilities and caregivers with basic handicraft skills. By developing these skills in individuals we hope to increase socialization through a friendly environment, generate income, and encourage empowerment though self-sustainability.

The Handicraft group caters to 12 individuals who have various disabilities as well as caregivers. They meet every Tuesday from 9 am until 3 pm at Balenbouche Estate. With additional support we hope to increase our training days to 2-3 days per week. The main handicraft projects include pot holders, crocheted clothes, cushions, mirrors using indigenous materials, bamboo/coconut kitchenware, stone soap dishes, and straw baskets.

Timeframe:

Over the next 7 months we will be busy exposing and developing skills in handicrafts with our trainees. From December 9th-11th we will be holding a Christmas Market at Balenbouche Estate that will showcase our finished products and celebrate our accomplishments as well as the Holiday season. In the future we hope to increase our membership, expand our market to the tourism industry and establish a permanent handicraft center in the southern region of the island.

Material Needs:

• Crochet Hooks
• Crochet Yarn
• Thread
• Yarn
• Stuffing for cushions
• Fabric
• Scissors
• Glue Gun
• Fabric Glue/Hot Glue Gun
• Crazy Glue
• Sandpaper
• Jigsaw
• Sander
• Handsaw
• Wood Chisels
• 3 Grouches
• Files
• Hack saw with blades

Specific Guidelines: