Sunday Offerings
Mujures de Maiz Opportunity Foundation
Recipient three times
February 2009, January 2010, and November 2010
“Investment in girls’ education may well be the highest return investment available in the developing world.” Lawrence Summers, Economist and Director of the National Economic Council for President Obama.
The Mujures de Maiz Opportunity Foundation was begun by a Unitarian Universalist in Sequim, Washington five years ago. The mission is to partner with and empower indigenous women in a sewing cooperative in Chiapas, Mexico by providing them with access to education. The goals are to help break the cycle of poverty, build self-esteem, and create positive role models.
Success
So far the organization has provided fifteen scholarships. Two women are doing university level work, two are attending preparatory school (grades 10-12) and eight are in secondary school (6-9). In addition, three adult women are completing their primary education.
Computers for three villages in the cooperative have been purchased and training workshops are given. Eyeglasses, solar lights, toothbrushes and other hygiene items have also been provided.
The women
The people in the villages are very poor, lacking heat, electricity, running water and plumbing. They are very appreciative for the help that has been given them.
EUUC Connections
Five EUUC members have now traveled to Chiapas with Foundation board members to see firsthand the progress that has taken place. Several board members from the Foundation will be visiting EUUC on January 3, 2010.
The Sunday Offering Committee voted last summer to become a sustaining supporter for the Mujeres Foundation.Would you like to nominate a charity?
Fill out a nomination form and place it in the Sunday Offerings mailbox.