The Grassrooted Trust launched their Clothing Range that includes men’s, women’s and unisex t-shirts and vests at the Good Market recently.

“This clothing range, which uses iconic Sri Lankan images is set to take Sri Lanka by storm, and also has the potential to be part of our burgeoning export market,”Damitha Perera, Buyer from London, on sabbatical, volunteering with the Grassrooted Trust, said.     
 

Young models representing the marginalised in society were part of the fashion show; keeping with the objectives of the Grassrooted Trust that works with marginalised people including those who live with HIV, those who identify themselves as transgendered, and those who sell sex.

Sales will go towards supporting the work of the Grassrooted Trust with these marginalised communities in Sri Lanka.

“There was an extremely positive response to the clothing and customers were not making a one-time pity purchase to support a charity. So if you want to support our work, we don't want a donation, buy one of our products," said Paba Deshapriya, Director, Grassrooted.

The Grassrooted Trust wishes to be independent because it is asking the communities they work with to be independent, work and earn a living.

The Margie’s Kitchen initiative, with their Chillie Chocolate Cookie - where all those who work with them receive 80% of profits is about encouraging people to understand and appreciate that they remain productive citizens of this country.   

“For us to continue raising funds and donations would be disingenuous. In the interest of transparency and best practice, The Grassrooted Trust (Guarantee) Limited incorporated in 2013, will also make our audited accounts available online annually from 2014. Buy a t-shirt and help the development model evolve in what is now a Middle-Income country," said Hans Billimoria, Director, Grassrooted.

The online store is open at www.grassrooted.net/store

Also look for Grassrooted clothing, mugs and post cards in stores near you, and visit facebook to order from Margie’s Kitchen.