Our “Mary Jean” jackets are appropriately named for our Founder’s beloved aunt Mary Jean. Full of vibrancy, love, and fun, Mary Jean was happiest when laughing with her four siblings, five children, and countless nieces and nephews – each of whom vied to be her “favorite!” That was her magic, of course, making each of us feel one-of-a-kind.
In similar style, these amazing jackets start with a US donation of a gently worn and much loved jean jacket* The jackets are sanitized and repaired, making the journey to Tanzania where the tailoring team transforms each into something vibrant, one-of-a-kind fun…and, truly, “Mary Jean!”
The team will update features, line collars,and cuffs, and add a distinctive back panel - all by hand from distinctive African Kitenge cloth (100% cotton and locally made). Since each is unique, we sell the jackets via Instagram, sharing to our reels and stories (to outline sizing and other features).
Purchase Process: our jackets are one of a kind - you are NOT getting the jacket pictured alongside the size icon on the order form (this is provided simply to outline what sizes are typically in stock!). ALL SIZES WILL BE SHOWN TO BE OUT OF STOCK.
So:
1. send us an email to: info@footforwardfund.org
2. indicate SIZE of your preferred jacket (as shown in column 1) and PATTERN preferred (see image gallery of current Kitenge patterns) and provide a phone number so that we can text you photos of what's available.
3. we will send you pics - if you like one, we'll invoice you.
Keep in mind: we are out at markets and selling via our social channels regularly: we will only invoice you ($90 - free shipping) if the jacket you want to order is available.
The Good Stuff! 100% of net proceeds are invested the Artisans and our innovative menstrual hygiene program, UhuruPads (Africa's first 100% compostable sanitary pad, produced by a team of women for distribution to girls keeping them in school).
* Have a Jacket to Donate? Great! We rely on donations of gently worn, recent release jackets which are then sanitized and repaired. You will be provided with a tax receipt for your donation (generally this is $40). You must ship the jacket to us but, in return, you will receive an amazing BRACELET as our thank you!