Sewing Machines for Women

changing lives with sewing machines

The Facts

Many research studies have concluded that when women in poverty receive training in sewing AND their own sewing machine:

Their overall well-being improves (mental & physical health),
They are frequently safer from domestic violence,
They have increased self-efficacy, confidence, and security,
They develop & promote unity in their community, AND
They gain a means of income for their family.

Additionally, when women teach other women how to sew:

Women gain stronger bonds of loyalty and friendship with each other,
Women are empowered in their ability to instruct, which makes them more involved in teaching their own children, AND
Women are empowered to make other social change in their community.

What Subi is Doing

With the "Sewing Machines for Women" initiative, select women will be trained in sewing. They will learn everything from measuring, to cutting fabric, to operating the machine.

Young women (between the ages of 18-24) are interviewed by our members in Uganda. Video introductions are sent to the Subi board in America. Once we have selected young women for the program, Subi Foundation buys the young woman her own sewing machine. Subi Foundation matches the young woman with a teacher and Subi Foundation pays for training. Upon completion of training, the young woman is then able to set up her own tailoring business right out of her home.

Eventually, as these young women become more confident/successful with their sewing, they will become teachers to other young women.

Since electricity is very expensive in Uganda, and frequently shuts off completely, Subi Foundation purchases treadle (foot-powered) sewing machines for the young women in this program. The average cost for this type of sewing machine is $200. If you would like to help change the life for a woman by gifting a sewing machine, please click here to donate.