Dresses for Africa: NBC features church-supported ministry

Girls in Malawi show off their new dresses from Little Dresses for Africa. (Photo via www.littledressesforafrica.org)

On Cyber Monday we posted links to.gif?Action=thumbnail&Width=460&algorithm=proportionalts you can buy from church-supported ministries.
Now, here’s a chance to send a Christmas.gif?Action=thumbnail&Width=460&algorithm=proportionalt to children in Africa.
On Dec. 8, NBC Nightly News ran a “Making a Difference” segment on Little Dresses for Africa, a nonprofit, Christian-based organization which “provides relief to the children of Africa,” according to the ministry’s website. “Simple dresses are made out of pillowcases and distributed through the orphanages, churches and schools in Africa to plant in the hearts of little girls that they are worthy.”
Here’s the NBC report. In the background, you can catch a glimpse of the meeting place of the Trenton Church of Christ in Michigan, where the ministry was born.

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(Personally, I take issue with the report’s claim that the children in Africa have a “sadness” about them. I have traveled to Africa seven times and I always am amazed by the joy I see in the faces of children — despite the poverty. Children in Africa teach me a lot about the disconnect between possessions and happiness.)
Have you made a pillowcase dress for Africa? Please share your experiences (and e-mail me some photos of your work).

• Feedback
  I was overjoyed to see the NBC feature about Rachel O’Neill and her “Little Dresses for Africa”. However, I take issue with Mr.Tryggestad’s editorial comment. Rachel’s comment about what prompted her to begin this ministry was a reflection of her intuitive response to the particular little girls she met while there. It was the “sadness” that she saw in their eyes (something behind the smiles that women are often more keenly aware of) that would not allow her to forget these children, and led to this great work. The making of more than 100,000 Little Dresses has blessed an immeasurable number of American women as they sought to bless these children. Thank you, Rachel.

  Joyce Duvall

  December, 11 2010

  Joyce: Thanks for the comment. If you watch the report again, you’ll note that the “sadness” comment didn’t come from Rachel, but from the reporter. That’s the comment I questioned. I don’t know if Rachel actually said it or not. I have since corresponded with Rachel and am hoping to get a piece on this ministry together for an upcoming print edition of the Chronicle.

  Erik Tryggestad

  December, 11 2010

  Erik, You’re doing a great job. Could you please come to Africa, Ghana to witness this year’s National Bible Camp meeting on 23rd to 28th December, 2010. If you able to come you will get a lot of information I will be right there. We shall meet in our school campus at Adadientem near Ejisu in Ashanti region. Contact number:0203800392/0263418219
  keep it up.

  Maxwell K.W Agyarko

  December, 14 2010

  Thank you Joyce. I felt that the statement was misleading and I appreciate your clarification. It was, in fact, what I saw “behind” their eyes that I can’t forget. And I did say, that they know that there is a long road ahead and I stand by that statement. I appreciate all the wonderful news coverage. It has resulted in many more people getting involved on this side of the ocean as well as in Africa. Thank you so much. We appreciate all the help. Rachel

  Rachel

  January, 5 2011

  I am a a member of a local church – Trinity Pines Baptist Church in Trinity, Tx.My husband plays the drums for the church band and that was his ministry and gave him a chance to contribute his God given talents. However, I felt that I had no ministry myself until a fellow member made the announcement about the dresses and gave me the pattern. So far I have made 58 and love every minute of it. Even if you are a novice like me you can still make the dress. Pillow cases are great, but any fabric will do. Lace and trims are cute ad-ons. These children need these clothes so if you can, try and make just one. The pattern is on the Nancy’s Notions website or i will supply it to you if you email me at [email protected] It’s a wonderful feeling to know that sometimes you can help and try to make a difference, no matter how small!!!!!!!!!!!

  Robin Mason

  December, 25 2011

  By the way, I would love to go to Africa and don’t plan on ever stopping sewing these dresses, My goal for now is 100 so I’m over half way there!!!!

  Robin Mason

  December, 25 2011