Crosstrade

Who we are:
Crosstrade was formed in 2003 after owner, Steve West, had an experience during a missions trip to Brazil that shifted his paradigm in how to effectively help those in need. Crosstrade developed from a vision to create a market based solution that can aid those in poverty by purchasing Artisan crafts from those in need and selling the products to those more fortunate in the United Stat

es. He began operations by developing relationships with 8 poverty stricken families in the state of Ceara on the northeast coast of Brazil. Since that time Crosstrade has grown to support over 50 families stretching across 6 states; Amazonas, Para, Manahao, Piaui, Ceara, Minas Gerais, and Tocantins. In 2008 Crosstrade constructed a warehouse in the state of Maranhao in order to act as a central location for warehousing and domestic shipping. In 2012 Crosstrade began supporting a wood workshop to support men and women who are unemployed and without trade skills. The workshop acts as a training ground for artisans to create products that can be sold in the Blowing Rock, NC retail store. In 2014 a husband and wife couple was hired in the state of Para to run regional operations and facilitate communication and accountability for Crosstrade. What we do:
The operations of Crosstrade focuses on locating families in poverty who already make a product or have the desire to learn a craft. The products are then purchased from the artisans at a generous price and shipped and sold at a retail store in Blowing Rock, NC. Crosstrade works through local churches and other non-profit organizations who have similar goals to achieve three things:

1) Develop long term relationships with artisans who are truly in need
2) Provide accountability and supervision through people on the ground
3) Meet needs that go beyond economic such as spiritual, relational, and lifestyle

Crosstrade also provides interest free equipment loans to artisans who need to finance equipment or resources. The only requirement is that loans need to be repaid within 3 years through product delivery or cash payments. The services that Crosstrade provides are focused on the long term sustainability of the artisans’ trade and family wellbeing, which is reflected in the overall mission of Crosstrade. How you can help:
Crosstrades' passion is to provide opportunities for families in Brazil to work their way out of the trap of poverty. One thing we are continuing to learn is to ask questions and listen! The families we serve know better than we do what help they need. However, we also want to hear from you! Ideas on helping our partners (families) and the products that are sold in our Online Store and our Blowing Rock, NC store. If you have comments or suggestions for improving our service, please post them here. If you have encouragement for our partners in Brazil, you may include them here. We will translate them into Portuguese and send them to Brazil. We also would love for you to spread the word about Crosstrades mission to impact the poor in Brazil! We cannot make an impact in our partners lives without your help because you are their direct source of opportunity. Please like us on facebook, shop at the online or Blowing Rock store, and most importantly, tell others about the difference your purchase makes!