Common Thread - sewing with purpose

Our Members

The members of Common Thread operate sewing programs and enterprises that provide a fair wage and meaningful, supportive work experiences.

The Kettle Friendship Society provides a variety of flexible work settings for its members who are recovering from mental illness. Members apply existing or newly learned sewing skills in a supportive environment while completing sewing contracts.
http://www.thekettle.ca/

Coast Mental Health started Sewing With Heart in 2003 as a way to provide work opportunities and skill development for people recovering from mental illness.
http://coastmentalhealth.com/sewing.html

Malalay, the Afghan Women’s Sewing and Craft Co-op was started with the support of the Immigrant Services Society of BC and other organizations in 2004. Members provide dress-making services to the Afghan community and produce other sewing products on contract.
http://www.malalaycooperative.com/index.php

Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS) operates a 12-week sewing program exclusively for women that teaches cutting and tailoring. A trained and well qualified instructor with more than 30 years of experience guides students to develop and hone their skills.
http://www.pics.bc.ca/site/programs/employment_programs.html

E.M.B.E.R.S. (Eastside Movement for Business & Economic Renewal Society) is based in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside where it provides programs and services that increase the sustainability of small business in the community.
http://www.embersvancouver.com

A participant from Sewing With Heart

“It was amazing to see how the skills and confidence of Kettle members involved in sewing tote bags increased with direction and mentorship. Their enthusiasm and pride was contagious and showed how people recovering from a mental illness can play a productive role in society. “

Jenette MacArthur
SEED Employment Program Coordinator
The Kettle Friendship Society

Phone: 604.736.0935 - Email: info@commonthreadcoop.ca