Poppy&Loom to Vietnam

Many of you know that Gao Foua has started a business selling handmade Asian goods. The initial dream for the business was born out of a desire to take students from Aliquippa to see the world, knowing that one major disadvantage for many of the students that we serve is that they have never left the state of Pennsylvania much less the United States. We see the business as a way to facilitate this travel while also connecting with Gao Foua's heritage to benefit families in Southeast Asia who are working hard to provide for their families through handmade goods.

We are so very excited to announce that we are set to embark on our first international trip this fall (September to be exact). This trip is important for two reasons. First, Gao Foua has recently gotten connected with an entrepreneurial Hmong woman from Vietnam who is connecting her with Hmong women in the textile industry. This trip will strengthen these connections and solidify supply for Poppy&Loom.

Second, we are thrilled to be able to take two young men along with us on this journey. We've known Keith and Wanya since 2007. They were a part of John's first summer day camp class and the original cohort with Aliquippa Impact. We strongly believe that broader exposure to global cultures plays a vital role in inspiring creativity and hope. We also know that hope has the power to change lives. We believe this will be an amazing, life-changing trip for both Keith and Wanya.

We are asking for you to become a part of this dream with us! This trip will be a huge step in the right direction, solidifying relationships and the supply of product for the business while also taking two of our long-time students from Aliquippa overseas! It would mean so much for us, and we would be incredibly grateful for anything that you can give to make this a reality!

MANY THANKS,
Gao Foua and John

Also, If you have yet to see Poppy&Loom's website, we would love for you to check it out:
www.poppyandloom.com