Tuesday, September 18

Woodworking shop

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Sewing classes anyone?

Karla’s husband, Brad, took us to see their work projects. One is called Life Art and is designed to teach work skills to those needing to earn a living. There are several facets to it. First, a woodworking department teaches men to build furniture. There’s a lovely facility equipped with everything necessary to run such a course. Their first class graduated two weeks ago, and a second session will begin in mid-October. One of their students was unemployed for 10 years, living in a one-room apartment with his wife and four kids. Now he’s learned skills, is earning an income, and will stay on as a teacher! What a boost to his ego! Better yet, he’s become a believer. This facet has a major need, however – someone to take over the supervision of it. Is there someone out there with woodworking skills and a desire to use them in this setting on a long-term basis??

Next, there’s a sewing section to teach women life skills. The pilot program will begin in mid-October. This program also has a need, or rather, two: (1) money to buy irons and ironing boards – this would be an easy project for a women’s ministry group to undertake. The needed items can be purchased here, so there’s no shipping involved. Just the funds. (2) Funds to pay the instructor’s wages for this pilot program. She will earn about $7 per hour, with a total of $800 necessary. When the pilot program is complete, the government will pick up the tab for future sessions because it recognizes the value of such skills to its citizens well-being.

Then there’s Word Art. This is a language school in historical downtown Kosice. The business offers classes for 33 languages! Sometimes they’re working with professionals who have been transferred to Kosice; sometimes they’re working with refugees from war-torn countries.