Macy’s Heart Of Haiti Campaign

December 20, 2012

In December 2009, I had a strong urge to solo travel somewhere “off the beaten path.”  I researched for days on end — trying to find the place that would settle my wanderlust.  I wanted to visit a country that was new to me, that was full of culture, and that had reefs I could dive in.  One day it finally hit me: Haiti.  I spent hours designing my dream itinerary and just as I was about to purchase the ticket, I had another strong urge not to do it.  If there is one thing that travel has taught me, it is to listen to my intuition.  I ended up choosing to travel to Brasil instead and the day that I flew back to the United States, was the day that Haiti was struck by a catastrophic 7.0 earthquake.  It is estimated that over 300,000 people were killed, over 300,000 people were injured, and over 1,000,000 were left homeless.  I am incredibly grateful that I listened to my intuition, however years later I still cannot get Haiti out of my mind and heart.  That is why I was overjoyed to participate in Macy’s Heart of Haiti campaign.

Heart of Haiti
Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and despite this fact its citizens are filled with both a strong hope and desire to improve their lives through employment.  Known throughout the world as having some of the most talented artisans, Macy’s has found some of the best to create a home decor line that features their extraordinary work.  The collection has more than 40 items including: quilts, metalwork, jewelry, and paintings that are mostly made from recycled items such as old cement bags, cardboard, oil drums, and local wood.  I was sent 2 star Christmas tree ornaments that look beautiful on my tree and serve as constant reminder of the enduring courage of the Haitian people.
Heart of Haiti
If you feel compelled to contribute, purchasing items from Macy’s Heart of Haiti is an easy way to help a community in need.  What I admire most about this campaign, is that it upholds the belief that “trade not aid” is a powerful way to create sustainable work and financial opportunities in a dignified way.  Currently, the program has employed 780 workers.

I was asked to write about “a star” in my life.  I am blessed to have many people that surround me with constant love, support, and guidance.  It is impossible to choose just one, but one of the most shining star’s is my husband, Lucas.  We are getting ready to celebrate our 2nd Christmas together as husband and wife and each day I wake up with my heart filled with gratitude that he is there holding my hand every step of the way as we navigate our new life together.  He definitely makes my world seem brighter.

I received exclusive product from the Macy’s Heart of Haiti line that inspired this post.  I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective, and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own. #CleverHaiti

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Andi Perullo de Ledesma

I am Andi Perullo de Ledesma, a Chinese Medicine Doctor and Travel Photojournalist in Charlotte, NC. I am also wife to Lucas and mother to Joaquín. Follow us as we explore life and the world one beautiful adventure at a time.

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8 thoughts on “Macy’s Heart Of Haiti Campaign

  1. Bess

    I came across some of their Haiti ornaments last year and thought it was a great idea. If we will be purchasing decorations or gifts for the holidays anyway, it makes sense to buy them from independent artisans and craftspeople, and fair-trade is a great way to go. I really like those stars.

    Reply
  2. Krista

    I’m so very, very glad you were not hurt or killed in Haiti, Andi. It is amazing how our hearts lead us just where we need to be, or not be. XO I’m so glad your Lucas is your shining star. 🙂 Thank you for giving us this opportunity to help the people of Haiti if we are able.

    Reply
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      It’s so important to listen our guts, but it can be difficult with all of the worldly distractions! Thank you immensely for your kind words — I’m so blessed to have people like you in my life. <3

      Reply

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