Fair Trade is defined as a global movement made up of a diverse network of producers, companies, consumers, advocates, and organizations putting people and planet first. October is Fair Trade Month, a vital time to raise awareness about the importance of the fair trade movement in our global economy. This month encourages us to support those committed to fair trade practices, promoting choices that uplift communities and protect the environment instead of those that may cause harm.

In Honduras, CEPUDO, a ministry of Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) food partner Food For The Poor, supports indigenous women in poverty-stricken communities by providing skills training and dignified, sustainable employment. Nearly 80% of rural Hondurans live in extreme poverty, making less than $4 USD per day, according to data from 2021.

The CEPUDO program employs 28 women who weave traditional Lenca fabrics using techniques and designs passed down through generations. These women are using their weaving skills to break the cycle of poverty for their families.

FMSC MarketPlace™ believes in the power of dignified and sustainable employment. Every purchase directly supports artisans in communities that receive FMSC food. Artisans earn a fair wage for their handcrafted goods, and retail profits fund more meals for kids around the world.

In the 2023–24 fiscal year, FMSC MarketPlace™ supported 2,111 local artisans, and retail sales provided more than 4.5 million meals to families around the world.

To learn more about CEPUDO or to shop their recent collection, please visit: fmscmarketplace.org.