MoreLetters:
T ank you from Melaque, Mexico, 2012: In the September edition of this magazine, my letter
was included requesting assistance in getting sewing machines and sewing supplies delivered to Melaque. In response, I had two off ers to take machines down. One was overwhelmingly positive from Wayne McGregor of Vernon BC. He took seven sewing machines as well as material, sewing notions, an ironing board, etc. to Melaque. Six more machines were taken by friends of Marg and Brian Perry, for a total of 13 machines! I also had several individuals who donated machines and material, notions, etc. A big T ank You to everyone! At the borders, USA and Mexico, these items were cleared as “charitable donations”. Gordon and I fl ew to Mexico and were fortunate
that Westjet allowed two checked bags as “charitable donations” as well. Upon our arrival in Melaque on January 17th
, I set up a meeting for January 19th . All
those interested in sewing as beginners as well as those continuing on from last year were invited. Twenty Mexican ladies came! I was overwhelmed. With the assistance of an interpreter, I was able to make my expectations clear and set up classes for the following week for the second year class. T ere were eight students in attendance. T e next week I began classes for beginners and seven ladies came out. So my classes became 15 students on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. or later. I had fi ve ladies from Canada who winter in Melaque, assist with the classes. I could not have taught the second year class by myself. Second year students were introduced to sewing using a paper pattern. Patterns are not available in Mexico. T e patterns used all had a Spanish translation and were for children’s clothing. Some weeks were “doubled up” classes trying to complete projects and learn the essentials of basic sewing. Some students grasped the skills very quickly, while others struggled. At the end of the fi ve weeks, we held a 2nd
Annual
Fashion Show and Sale at the Villas Camino del Mar. T ere were 161 people in attendance while 13 models showed off what they had sewn. T e items were sold and 100% of the proceeds and “tip” money was divided among the sewers. T is year, 15,000 Pesos were raised on the day of the sale. T e ability to earn extra money is huge for their families. T e event was video recorded and shown on the local TV station. T e following week classes continued and they had
the option to learn mending, alteration skills, make a bag, shorts for themselves, or curtains. We also provided a “shopping experience” as all material, notions, etc, were sorted and displayed along with simple patterns so they can continue to sew when I am back in Canada. T ere was no charge for the items. I told the ladies that I wanted to see what they had made when I came back. Any student receiving a machine had to sign a one-year contract with me agreeing to use the machine and keep it in good working condition. So again, I hope to receive support from the RV
community to transport machines, material and sewing “stuff ” to Melaque. T ese ladies so appreciate the donations from generous individuals in Canada. If anyone wishes more information, can transport or donate items, please call or email us. Carol & Gordon McDougall, West Kelowna, BC 250-707-3440 /
gncmcd81@telus.net
10 RVT 148 • JULY/AUGUST 2012
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