Covid Updates From the Field

Stories of Resilience

With many businesses closed, workers are struggling to make ends meet. Those impacted are coming up with innovative solutions and using Fair Trade Community Development Funds earned through the certification to meet the unique needs they are facing amidst the pandemic.
 

"The burden of thinking of what COVID could bring feels lighter. Fair trade gives us hope to remain strong and determined" - Coconut farmer, Philippines 

A squash farm in Sonora, Mexico voted to safeguard nutrition, education, health procedures, and emergency use of funds for their community. Because of these additional funds, they will be able to provide Wi-Fi and remote classes to workers and their families, purchase thermometers for field doctors monitoring worker health, and have extra funds for medical emergencies. Additionally, Fair Trade USA will be sending 400 masks to workers in need.

In the Dominican Republic, we worked with Wine to Water to distribute 10 hand washing stations and 10 water filters that will benefit 190 cocoa farmers and their families.

Brands like Known Supply and MEC sources their fabric from fair trade factory workers that are supplied with PPE, hand washing stations and are enforcing strict social distancing guidelines. We suggest getting one of their masks if you're in need. On top of this, many of our factories have stepped up to produce protective equipment for their communities and medical professionals at the front lines.

Your Fair Trade Certified purchases and donations helps support the most vulnerable communities during this unprecedented time. Thank you again for your support!