White Aisle and Daughters Cambodia
A partnership between White Aisle and Daughters to provide silk goods each handmade in Phnom Penh, Cambodia by one of the many young women trying to move their lives forward after being victims of sex trafficking. 100% of the profit for this item will go back to the local day center we work with. It will pay the salaries of these girls, and expand the facility to include full time housing so that they no longer have to go to the brothels in the evenings. This program not only provides them with income, but also a new skill and a feeling of empowerment. It’s a first step out of what is an unimaginable life for most of us.
“Recently my husband and I became aware of the child trafficking situation in Cambodia. We were really struck by the fact that girls as young as 5 or 6 were being sold into brothels by their families on a regular basis. The photos and personal stories I’ve seen have been disturbing on a level I’ve never experienced before. I found an organization in Phnom Penh who work to get girls and young women out of the sex trade and into other jobs, as without an income they are unable to leave their current situation. I approached the founder of the group with the idea of opening a sewing center where the girls could use local silks (which are amazing and in abundance) and make wedding related items like ring pillows and sashes for dresses. She loved the idea, and together we created a vocation training facility where the girls can come during the day and earn a salary. They then have the option of staying next door in housing that the group now has, or going back to the brothel. Over time, most end up leaving the sex trade all together and begin reintegrating into society. A great day there is when you see one of the girls smile for the first time. It’s a difficult, but very moving process.
Earlier this month we visited Cambodia and were able to see the sewing center all set up, and meet all of the girls. The first silk goods were made, and we were thrilled with them! We are now back home (ridiculously jetlagged) and have just updated our website with the items we were able to stuff into our suitcases. 100% of the profits on these items will go directly back to the women making them. The more we can get the word out, the more we can do for these people.”
-Rebecca Sokoloff, White Aisle