Noonday Collection

The goal of Noonday Collection is to help create a pathway out of poverty for artisans around the world. They partner with other ministries and businesses to sell beautifully designed and meticulously handcrafted jewelry, accessories and home goods.

One of their partners, Jenny Krauss, discovered the ancient and beautiful embroidery prevalent in Peru. The remote rural area was previously terrorized by the group, "The Shining Path". Recognizing the artistry indigenous to this area, she began to employ these women by creating pieces for the United States market. There are now 900 women employed in this remote region of Peru. 

The only opportunities previously available in these rural areas were agricultural. By enabling these women to earn a living wage through their ancient craft of embroidery, some have been able to purchase chickens (thus providing eggs and meat), enter the local political arena, and even employ their husbands as couriers. All of their products are made according to fair trade guidelines. This means the artisans are paid a living wage, have a safe working environment and are not subject to workplace pollutants or toxins. They usually work at home with their children playing nearby. 

Each belt is a one-of-a-kind work of art handcrafted with love by a Peruvian artisan. Come enjoy an up-close look at Artreach! Noonday also features unique pieces created by artists in Uganda, Guatemala, China, Lebanon, Ecuador and refugee artisans adjusting to life in the United States.

Noonday came together for founder Jessica Honegger as the "dream she never knew she possessed" just this year. On a mission trip to Uganda in January, Jessica and her husband felt the call to adopt internationally. The founders of African Style products in Uganda graciously donated their products to help the Honegger's raise money for their Rwandan adoption. From there, a small grain of an idea developed into a full-fledged company in a matter of weeks. By selling stylish fair trade products at small events and trunk shows in people's homes, she's able to share the plight of the oppressed in a personal way. 

"I love helping women feel beautiful and have fun, I love giving other women a voice, and I love getting to share God's heart for the orphan," Jessica writes on their website. A portion of the profits from every sale helps place orphans in forever families. We are thrilled that the Honeggers just traveled to Rwanda to finally bring home their son. They will continue to give to and support adoptive families.

Hanna Galo

Hanna Galo has been creating handcrafted beaded crosses for more than a decade. He says that it is not his hobby, it's his mission. When people look at the crosses he makes, he wants them to remember that there is a God who is with them, even in the toughest of circumstances.

Hanna knows about hard times from personal experience. He had to flee his home in Iraq during the reign of Saddam Hussein more than 15 years ago because he was persecuted for his Christian name and beliefs. He settled in Jordan and established a life there. After connecting with The Bible Society in Jordan, he began creating and selling his beaded crosses in order to earn a living. He would later find out that his son, who was still living in Iraq, was killed at 24 years of age because of his Christian faith. It was then that he decided to flee the Middle East and begin a new life in the United States.

In November 2009, Hanna, his wife, Afaf, and teenage daughter, Jakleen, arrived in Austin. It has been quite a struggle for the family financially as they search for full-time work and adjust to life in America. Materials and supplies (it takes 90 beads for one small beaded cross) are more expensive in the States. Hanna says he'll continue his work in spite of the challenges. Afaf and Hanna say they are committed to their mission, no matter where they may live. "With everything that goes on in life, people forget God and begin to depend on themselves," said Afaf. "We want everyone to remember and know that Jesus is our protector and Savior."

Hanna's beautiful beaded crosses can be used as keychains, wall hangings or Christmas ornaments. Prices range from $8 to $18 for intricate pieces of handmade craftsmanship.
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