faq
Q. Where do the women live after they come to work at Sari Bari?
The women make their own choices about where to live. Many of them remain in the red light area staying in their rooms where they have connection and community. As they remain, they offer support to one another, prevent another girl from taking their place in the brothel, and become an advocate for other women taking steps toward freedom. Some of the women choose to move out of the red light area right away and find a cheaper, safer option for themselves and for their families. For young women, who experience the external pressure to stay in the sex trade, we provide financial and logistical assistance so that they can find another place to live outside the red light area.
Q. Do the women still have owners or madams? How is that they are free to come and work for Sari Bari?
Sari Bari targets a population of women who are no longer bound by an owner. The women who work at Sari Bari became independent sex workers once released from the ownership due to age or repayment of the debts that bound them. They are free make a choice for alternate employment and have made the choice to pursue freedom and new life through Sari Bari.
Q. How long has Sari Bari been in business?
Sari Bari was established as a single proprietorship in 2006 and became an Indian Private Limited Company in 2009. Sari Bari was established to manufacture handmade products out of recycled cotton saris while providing employment as a tool for freedom for women trapped in the sex trade and a means of prevention for those who are vulnerable to trafficking. We now employ more than 50 women in three locations.
Q. What happens to the profits from Sari Bari?
All the profits from the business benefit the women of Sari Bari and their families and are used create opportunities for freedom for more women.
Q. Why should I choose Sari Bari products?
Sari Bari Products are beautiful, sustainable, handcrafted, unique treasures that we hope will bring you enjoyment. The products at Sari Bari are the work of artisans who are paid fair wages with good benefits. Each product carries the name of the artisan who made it giving meaning and connection to the person who made your bag, blanket or other Sari Bari product.
Q. What can I do to become part of the story?
We believe there is a place for everyone to become part of the Sari Bari story. Not only can you buy Sari Bari products, you can recommend them to shops and recruit new outlets in your area. Perhaps your place of employment would benefit from a custom printed bag or are looking for innovative business gifts. Join in with the Sari Bari story and help us to build that connection.
Q. How do I wash my unique Sari Bari product?
Blankets can be machine washed on the gentle cycle in cold water and dried in the dryer on low.
Bags vary by style but we recommend hand washing with minimal soaking time and hang dry. Do not soak bamboo handles in water.
Q. How long can I expect my Sari Blanket to last?
We hope your Sari Bari blanket will be an heirloom and a treasure for many years to come. If you treat the blanket with kindness, it should last for a long, long time.
Q. How do I become a retailer or sell at my church or school?
If you want to become a retailer or agent of Sari Bari products please email info@saribari.com.
Q. This is great, but I still have more questions.
We are happy to help! There is more information on our Customer Service page. For any other questions, email info@saribari.com.
