Canadian Lutheran World Relief supports artisans and farmers in the developing world through Four Corners Alternative Trade Organization. By purchasing coffee, textiles and handcrafted products at consignment sales or at one of CLWR’s Canadian office locations, Canadians provide a living wage to workers struggling to pay for the basics of life. Your consumer choices make a difference to these people and their families.
The Evangelical Lutheran Women (ELW) and Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR) covenant to work together for the well-being of developing world artisans.
For a downloadable information flyer click HERE.
Program Goals
- To contribute to the economic viability of developing country artisans through the promotion and marketing of their products in Canada.
- To make available opportunities for ELW participants and friends to join as a creative force with CLWR in contributing to the economic viability of developing country artisans through the promotion and purchase of their products.
CLWR provides
- The product research, product procurement, product pricing, Canadian distribution, publicity, marketing, accounting and educational information necessary to effectively carry out Four Corners.
- Ongoing updates and publicity materials for ELW staff and Synodical volunteer contact persons in order that all may be current regarding information related to the products and to the program, including training for Synodical volunteers, as required.
- In recognition of the role ELW plays in the success of this program, [on a semi-annual basis], Four Corners remits seven (7%) of the gross margin [sales minus cost of goods sold] for sales through the ELW to the ELW office.
ELW provides
- An avenue for distribution of product to be sold by securing committed contact persons from each Synodical ELW. These Synodical volunteers (three-year term) are aware of events taking place in their Synod and communicate this information to Four Corners Churches Liaison/Volunteer Coordinator.
- Encouragement to Congregational ELWs to participate in Four Corners by publicizing the opportunity in various ELW communications.
- When available from CLWR and appropriate for the magazine, articles about particular artisans or cooperatives may be included in the Esprit magazine.
- Promotional opportunities at National ELW Conventions as well as other major events in Synodical ELWs.
Consignment Sales
Most alternative trade products are sold through groups and congregations who arrange with Four Corners to host a consignment sale.
Synodical ELW Alternative Trade Representatives
- MNO Synod—Carole Bergson
- Eastern Synod—Nancy Davis
- BC Synod—Eva Harris
- SK Synod—Bette Klein
- ABT Synod—Lola Zbukvich
For contact information call 204.694.5602. For more information about Four Corners visit their website.