This Hmong Swirl Backpack is one of many handicrafts sold by Christian Freedom International, which has adopted the rhetoric of social entrepreneurship presumably to target Christian professionals, young people and others who would otherwise shop at places like 10,000 Villages. From a press release touting CFI's new catalog:
The catalog features dozens of handcraft items for sale, including ethnic clothing, pottery, jewelry and bags, all made by Christian artisans in countries such as Pakistan, Laos, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. As part of its microenterprise, or “self-help,” program, CFI provides artisans with training and materials, and then pays them for the crafts that are shipped to and sold in the United States. For poverty-stricken Christians, the program has been a successful way for them to earn an income for themselves and their families.
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