Path to Peace: Rwandan Hand-Made Baskets from Macy’s

I don’t know about you, but when it comes to gifts or anything like that, I strive to find things that are hand-made and support artisans in any way possible.  Sometimes that means buying from local shops, and sometimes it means purchasing items like this hand-made and beautiful basket from Macy’s Rwanda Path to Peace program.   Rwanda Path to Peace is a program to help women in Rwanda (who are not given equal opportunities like men) support their families through basket weaving.  It sounds so simple, but it makes such a difference in the lives of women when a person purchases one of their baskets over a basket made in a factory.

Like other programs that give women the ability to earn money when they normally can’t, this doesn’t just affect the women themselves – it impacts her family, her community, and her legacy.  Imagine not being able to send your children to school?  Or take them to the doctor?   The very thought brings tears to my eyes – and with Macy’s Rwanda Path to Peace, this gives women the opportunity to take care of their families in a way that was not possible before.  It’s also important to note that Macy’s – a large company who is really trying to make a change. You can meet the women who weave these baskets as well as read letters from them, and see how your purchase of a basket can change a life.

Now, onto the basket itself.  I received the “Harvest” basket, which is just beautiful.  It’s hard to believe it’s hand made – as someone who’s far from crafty, the work and intricacy in the weaving is absolutely impressive.

A beautiful star pattern plays out through the basket, and the lovely colors can go with any decor.

They have many other baskets, though, some in bright, bold colors and some, more neutral like mine.

When our orange and lemon trees come into season, I can just see this basket full of yummy oranges and lemons!

Thank you, Macy’s, for allowing me to review this beautiful item and this program.   These baskets would make great gifts for anyone, including yourself!  And fortunately for me, I can find these baskets in the mall very close to my house – maybe you can find a store near you, too?

I was sent a complimentary basket for review purposes, all opinions are my own and I was not compensated for them.