Levi’s has launched a handmade denim accessories collection in
partnership with Cooperative Porto Alegre, a non-profit organization that
provides job training for vulnerable people, including the homeless,
refugees and asylum seekers.
The Levi’s x Coop Porto Alegre capsule collection, which will be
available to purchase in selected Levi’s stores and on its website,
comprises a selection of tote bags, large pouches and pencil cases made
from excess Levi’s denim and fabrics repurposed in Porto Alegre
workshops.
All net proceeds from the collection will be donated directly back to
Porto Alegre to further support the organisation’s work.
Helping those most vulnerable
Founded in 2001, Porto Alegre is a social cooperative based in Rovigo,
Italy, that works to support the most vulnerable members of society,
including the homeless, people with health issues, migrants, refugees and
asylum seekers.
The partnership is part of a programme established by Levi Strauss & Co over
the past three years to support organisations that are providing critical
services and assistance to refugees. The programme, which is focused
largely in Europe, works with refugees at many different stages, from
displacement and disruption to resettlement and longer-term community
integration.
The US denim maker’s partnership with the Porto Alegre centres in the
tailoring and dress-making workshop founded by fashion designer Rita
Cassetta. The workshop will provide pre-professional training for refugees
and asylum seekers, many of whom have worked as tailors and dressmakers in
their countries of origin.
Adele Ballotta, senior director ecommerce, site merchandising and
operations at Levi Strauss & Co Europe, said: “At Levi Strauss & Co, we’ve
always believed that how we make our products is just as important as what
we make. The Levi’s x Porto Alegre collection is an example of that belief
and of our commitment to being a force for positive change in our
communities.
“Every piece is unique, just like the story of the person who made it,
and 100 percent of the net proceeds from the collection will be donated
directly back to Porto Alegre. We’re passionate about the work Porto Alegre
is doing and proud to support their mission.”
Photo credit: Levi’s
