DIR is a small NGO testing an innovative approach to development in selected slums in Punjab, India.  Its approach to development is based on founder Frederick Shaw’s observation that:

When a permanent solution has been brought to any serious, chronic problem, it is almost invariably brought by the people who have the problem… We facilitate the people in developing countries solving their own problems, thereby enabling them to bring about their own form of national development.

DIR projects fall into three groups:  health, education, and income generation. All aim at improving the ability of the poorest of the poor to improve the quality of their own lives.  An overview can be found at http://dir-help.org. Frederick’s fascinating monthly reports are available here:  http://www.dir-help.org/projects/india/

Many UUCB members are familiar with the fruits of one DIR income-generation project:  colorful wine bags, handbags and other crafts produced by women residents of the bustees, which Frederic and Roberta Shaw frequently make available Sundays in the atrium.

 

Crafts available through DIR include gift bags for bottles of wines, and carrying cases for iPads and other digital tablets.

FoDIR would love to hear from potential partners interested in handling any aspect of the marketing and distribution of these craft items. Although produced according to certain standards, each item is the unique production of a particular craftswoman, usually working with donated fabric remnants.