7th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL FAIR TRADE GIFT FAIR

7th Annual international Fair Trade Gift Fair will be at the Richard Stockton College Campus Center.

presented by the South Jersey Fair Trade Alliance

The Fair offers a unique opportunity for the

citizens of South Jersey to invest in their world by shopping Fair Trade. Fair Trade works to

provide low-income artisans with a living wage for their work, ensures environmental sustainability

(ie. shade-grown, organic coffee) and safe and healthy working conditions. This is a better

alternative to the many products made in sweatshops or other unsafe working environments.

The purpose of the sale is to return to the true meaning of gift giving and receiving by offering gifts

made from the heart and by human hands. We can avoid supporting sweatshops and other unjust

trade practices by buying fair trade.

The event, which is free and open to all, also features several local nonprofit organizations that

offer alternative gift options and information. World music will play throughout the day along with

live performances. There will be refreshments for sale, with the proceeds going to support our

local Food Bank.

One of the things that make this gift fair special are the partnerships that have developed through

the years between Mainland Regional High School students, Stockton’s S.A.V.E. organization and

the South Jersey Fair Trade Alliance. The fair, originally held at Stockton, moved to Mainland

Regional High School for the interim five years, and this year returns to where it all began.

SJFTA is working with Go Green Galloway toward having Galloway Township designated as a Fair

Trade Town; so it seemed fitting that the Fair be held in Galloway. Mainland Regional Teacher

Carol Austin will remain a essential part of the fair, along with her students. She has used the

event as a way to introduce students to the concept of fair trade, social justice and humanitarian

issues.

This year, the SJFTA has had the pleasure of working closely with members of Stockton

Volunteers for the Environment (S.A.V.E.). They have been invaluable during the planning

process; acting as liaisons between the SJFTA and the college.

Sales like this one sponsored by the South Jersey Fair Trade Alliance owe their success to

dedicated local volunteers. Over 20 volunteers will help set up the crafts, serve as sales clerks,

educate shoppers and clean up following the event.

For more information about the International Gift Fair

, contact the South Jersey Fair Trade