Mission Gifts was established in 1993 by Robin Merrill to provide a business for products from the poor. Robin became a missionary to the poor of Manila in 1985. After seeing many streetchildren and prostitutes become Christians through the ministry she was working with (Action International & Christ for Greater Manila), she felt led to help keep Christians off the streets by providing viable jobs within their context of living. Mission Gifts features a variety of products made by the poor, with an emphasis on creativity and world class quality. Producers are paid above standard wages for their work, and have a healthy and safe work environment (to the best degree possible). Unlike 'Community Development Projects', Mission Gifts specializes in providing livelihood projects for shelters of streetchildren and former prostitutes. Because the shelter residents are transient and there is a high turn over of clientiele, this requires the constant re-training of workers and development of products that can withstand these circumstances. With God's guidance, Mission Gifts has a delightful line up of products that brought joy to the creators and has always appealed to buyers. You will also find unique collaborative work from artists and designers , as well as specialty crafts from the marginalized poor. Most of our items are from the Philippines, and in time we hope to expand to include projects from other countries, especially ministries involved in aids, garbage dump dwellers, street children, and prostitutes. Will you dream with us? Our slogan "Products Made by Recycled People" reflects our belief in the scriptures found in 2 Corinthians chapter 5: "If any person is in Christ, they are a new creation. The old things have passed away and behold- all things become new." Whether rich or poor , an educated artist or a street person escaping the sex trade, we are all equal in God's sight and equally deserving of His love and mercy. This ministry provides a vehicle in which to sojourn together as we stumble towards the truth and God's redemptive plans for our lives. Most of our products are made from recycled materials. But more importantly, it's our lives that have been recycled by God and have been given meaning, love and dignity. Aside from products designed by Mission Gifts and produced by it's partner ministries, we also carry occassional items from like minded businesses that provide jobs for the poor. Watch for the development of our online shopping site and mail order catalog. Your tax-deductible donations help to sustain and grow this ministry, together with your prayers. If you are in South Florida, stop by our new new display center at 417 NE Third Ave., downtown Ft. Lauderdale. For more information contact Robin Merrill at 954-970-0348 (USA)