'Trash to Treasure Program' to generate funds to help the less fortunate here at a shelter for distressed, domestic workers in Kuwait..

Nerissa Alford initially became involved with the Trash to Treasure program because of her love for art. She was approached by Cheryl Spessert and asked if she wanted to teach jewelry making skills at a shelter for distressed domestic workers.

She loved the concept behind the program; taking items seen as “disposable” or “throwaway” and using them in functional crafts. Besides teaching crafts they teach life skills including Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and Small Business Seminar basics. In addition they've been able to find guest speakers to lecture on health and diet issues and English as a second language. Teaching these life lessons make this program so unique. I have a chance to make a significant change in someone’s life. They aren’t just providing a handout; it’s a hand up. They are enabling these women with skills and more importantly hope.

Here are a few quotes from some of the past participants;

"It can help me earn my way of living. I can earn money to get extra income, in making rugs, jewelry. What I have learn I teach then other friends, to share my knowledge. I am very happy cause now I return back to my nation, I'm not afraid cause I have ideas how to earn money by using my ability."

"This project took us from hopeless to hopeful."

"It makes us more proficient upon solving and tackling the obstacles that may come to our lives. Now, we're confident enough to face and encounter everything that lies ahead."

With the money these creative women have raised, they have enabled life to be more comfortable for themselves and their community. They have purchased: warm socks for 250 women, over-the-counter medications, items for personal hygiene, postage to mail Christmas letters home, small travel totes for repatriation, fans for the shelter, and metal plates for the kitchen.
They are currently looking for volunteers and donations in many capacities. Their current needs are:
~Old curtains, sheets, and fabric remnants from tailors, especially cotton
~Venues to sell rugs and jewelry made in Trash to Treasure" program
~Person skilled in gardening to help with Philippine Embassy's new Boy Scout sponsored project
~Snacks for 30-40 each Wednesday evening class
~Person to assist with marketing of products made
If you are interested in purchasing our handmade items, BIDA'A ANTIQUES (just north of the SAS Hotel - 256 57819) has a selection of the handmade rugs available. All profits go to Trash to Treasure. You may also contact Cheryl Spessert ckspessert@yahoo.com or Nerissa Alford nerissakbb@hotmail.com to see the complete line of rugs made from recycled fabrics & beaded jewelry made from recycled magazines.

To volunteer with the Trash to Treasure program please contact Cheryl or Nerissa. For general information regarding Operation Hope, please visit the website: www.operation-hope-kuwait.com or email: operationhopekuwait@yahoo.com.

Click on the flyer to enlarge.