AMITY BRAIDS
As our signature braid, the Amity braid is one that we hold close to our hearts. In all simplicity, it is a basic technique a braider learns in her first class. From choosing the material and color to the actual braiding process - as she weaves each strand over the other, she gains confidence through practice to complete her maiden braid. Created by our braiders, as young as 9 years old, we celebrate their first steps in learning a skill, forming a bond with the community, and rebuilding their lives.
Our Beneficiaries.
The bracelets hand-made by the beneficiaries are able to support them in multiple ways like - supporting their and their children's needs, supplements their income, or rebuild her life free from violence and to become financially stable for them to move into a new home.
Selma
Braider & Beneficiary
Selma is a survivor of domestic violence and was residing in a crisis shelter with her 4 children.
Hazel
Braider & Beneficiary
Hazel is a quiet but proud survivor of domestic abuse and a mother of one.
She has a keen eye for details and a quick study. She finds braiding a form of relaxation from her hectic schedule balancing work and home.
Rita
Braider & Beneficiary
Rita is a survivor of sexual assault and sought refuge from the crisis shelter.
Wendy
Braider & Beneficiary
Wendy is a survivor of domestic violence at Star Shelter.
Being visually challenged, she prefers simple beading. She is neat and methodical at her work.
Belinda
Braider & Beneficiary
Belinda was a victim of domestic violence for more than a decade until she decided to leave her abusive relationship in 2017.
Diana
Braider & Beneficiary
Diana is a survivor of domestic violence residing in the shelter with her 3-year-old son.
Mara
Braider & Beneficiary
Mara is a survivor of spousal violence and was residing in a crisis shelter.
Nina
Braider & Beneficiary
Nina is a survivor of domestic violence residing in the shelter with her primary school-aged son.
She likes bold and bright colors and takes strong ownership of her work. She loves to learn new patterns and is quick and thorough with her work. She is known to unravel an entire braid because she found a tiny error in the knot!
*The names of the beneficiaries have been changed to protect their identities