Purchase from the Pulsera Project!

By: Emily Litke

The Pulsera Project is a non-profit organization that works to educate, empower, and connect artists in Central America with students all over the United States. These students, specifically those taking Spanish, sell colorful, handwoven bracelets and bags made by artists in Nicaragua and Guatemala.

At Wethersfield High School, students who are a part of the Spanish National Honor Society are selling bracelets, or “pulseras,” and bags.

Leah Lin, a member of the SNHS, says “Wethersfield High School has been participating in this project for two years now.” She adds that, “People should purchase a pulsera because the funds go back to Central America to help the artists and their families to be able to afford everyday necessities.”

The most important part about these bracelets is that when you purchase one, it comes with a tag that shows you who made your bracelet or bag, as well as a little information about the artisan. This gives you a personal connection with the bracelet.

If you purchase one of these bracelets or bags, you will be providing employment for nearly 200 artists, as well as funding educational programs, scholarships, women & youth programs, fair trade advocacy, social enterprise, and artisan benefits such as housing & healthcare.

Katie Galusha, Vice President of the SNHS, says “The Pulsera Project supports a lot of students, especially ones our age, with scholarships and higher education. The money also reduces the likelihood that people in Central America will have to work in sweatshops.” Galusha also adds that, “You could spend $5 on anything, why not spend it on something to do good for others, and you'll get something good out of it too. People should help others, especially those who aren’t as fortunate as us.”

As you can tell, the Pulsera Project has been around for a very long time and has been educating and empowering artists in both Nicaragua and Guatemala over this time. They have raised over 4.5 million dollars since they started in 2009, for artists in Central America and continue to do so today.

Make sure to purchase a bracelet for $5 or a bag for $10, at lunch or from any SNHS member,  to show your support for these phenomenal artists throughout Central America. The Pulsera Project ends on May 13th.

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