Assisi Factory Profile
Who They Are
A Leader in Fair Trade Values, the Assisi factory started in 1994 as a non-profit rehabilitation program by the Franciscan Sisters for underprivileged women and the physically disabled, now stands as a garment manufacturer with a strong reputation. They started with 5 machines and ten girls. Today they employee up to 300 at peak times.
Assisi was among the first companies in India to use organic cotton manufacturing. Their heart is always with the environment they operate in. Conventional cotton farming uses synthetic fertilizers and pesticides which are harmful to nature and people. That is why Assisi exports only Fair trade garments across the world.
Their vision of giving back still stands strong as Assisi provides women a secure and safe workplace and a fair wage. This includes a bonus after four to five years of employment that allows them to start a home and often their own tailoring business.
Fairtrade factory
Their Passion
Assisi’s passion lies in both quality garments and in making a difference for those in need. They have had designer collaborations with internationally renowned fashion designers such as Orla Kiely, Peter Jensen, and Bora Aksu.
Seamstress
Social Responsibility
Social responsibility is at the heart of everything that Assisi is involved in. Fair trade certified and environmentally conscious; profit made go to running a rehabilitation center for the deaf, as well as elder homes, care for orphans and those affected by leprosy. Deeply committed to the environment we operate in, they believe that endorsing organic products is the first step in this direction. Conventional cotton cultivation necessitates the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. These not only have an adverse effect on the soil but also cause damage to human health. They hand make garments with care with GOTS certified organic cotton and are FLO certified. FLO-CERT is the inspection and certification body for labeled Fairtrade.
Interview with Sister Vinita
Q: Why did you get started/ into the garment manufacturing industry? A: “We have started the Assisi Garments in order to rehabilitate the deaf and dumb women, poor women and marginalized women. We wanted to give work and stand on their own”.
Q: Do you think that your factory is unique? A: “Yes. By all ways. Because this is run by the Assisi sisters as a factory and completely all the profit is utilizing for the welfare of women and other social activities, orphanages, cancer patients, old age homes like that.”
Q: What inspires you or what is something you are passionate about? A:“I found that Jesus Christ was so lovable with the poor and disabled. So, I want to show that compassionate love to those who are in need”.
Q: What does your typical day look like? A:“I am satisfied that I do something good for my God.”
Q: Why did you feel the need for organic cotton in the garment industry? A: “Organic cotton is good for health. It will not harm skin. It’s grown with natural manure. Does not contain any artificial fibers. It saves our mother earth”.
Q: How would you describe your team? A: My Team each person has one responsibility to do.
Q: What is a challenge you faced in the last week? A: “Because of the heavy rain, there were not many workers came in the factory. So, shipments delayed for 4 days”.
Q: Is there a motto (philosophy) that you have for yourself? A: “My motto is that “to be with Jesus and to be for others”
Q: What puts a smile on your face? A: “I have nothing to worry. I am in my God’s hand. He is taking care of me always.”
Q: If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be? A: “If I can, I want to give all people peace and joy to all.”
Giving Back Orphanage
Giving Back
Visiting factories gives you an amazing feelings of knowing the efforts and feelings that goes into your product. Interested in knowing about our other factory visits? Check our blog on Astro and Fair trade production!!
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