Adding to basket
The traditional, colorful textiles of the Maya are known throughout the world for their high-quality, beautiful designs and uniqueness. The backstrap loom dates back several centuries and has hardly changed! Floor looms were introduced by the Spaniards. Francisca, a 28 year old married mother of four children (aged 2-10), has a weaving business. Her husband and one employee work with her, weaving wrap-around skirts called “cortes.” Often, these traditional garments have intricate “ikat” or “jaspe” designs. Francisca is requesting her third Kiva loan to buy another floor loom and a large quantity of high-quality thread. The boy in the photo is the son of one of the clients.
Francisca is a member of the Friendship Bridge Trust Bank “Sector Sion” along with seven other Maya “K’iche” ladies. They are neighbors in a rural area in the department/state of Quiche. They look forward to their monthly meetings, make loan payments and participate in educational training sessions. Topics range from basic business-management practices to health, family matters (nutrition, hygiene) and women’s issues (self-esteem, empowerment). Every other month, they have access to basic health care services delivered by a visiting nurse who is sensitive to their needs. This successful combination of loans, education and health care is called “Microcredit Plus”!
In supplying capital for these loans, Kiva investors are helping these women with their traditional textile and poultry businesses. Thank you to each of you!
In this group: Agustina , Candelaria , Apolonia , Ines , Ana , Candelaria , Francisca , Gloria Romelia
