Assumption parents have discovered a way to make use of the gently-worn plaid uniforms by working with a foundation to come up with Plaidette, the heritage bear that is a symbol of the values of an Assumption girl.
Upcycled from school uniforms, Plaidette embodies ecological awareness, social responsibility and school spirit. It was produced for the Assumption Basic Education Division (BED) Family Council by the Gifts and Graces Fair Trade Foundation, a nongovernment organization that creates market access for products of marginalized communities.
For Assumption alumnae, disposing of the venerated red plaid is almost like disposing of the Philippine flag. “It made more sense to transform it first into something else,” says Grissel Gomez, an Assumption “old girl,” parent and outgoing Family Council president.
Plaidette generated a stir when she was formally introduced at the Parents’ General Assembly earlier this month. “We only had three prototypes that day but we received pledges and payments for over a hundred bears,” shared Kat Querubin, head of the committee on social responsibility and involvement of the Family Council.
The income generated by the sale of Plaidette cascades down to three organizations. It will fund the medical missions of the BED Family Council, and allow Gifts and Graces to continue to provide market access for the products of marginalized communities.
“Plaidette gives work to Kaibhan Inc., an NGO that works to lower maternal death and disability in Mapulang Lupa, Valenzuela. They are one of our 15 partner communities” says Greg Perez, executive director of the Gifts and Graces Foundation. “We offered Grissel and her team our design services and worked together for six months prototyping Plaidette.”
Plaidette appeals to all Assumption students, whether grade school or high school, plus the alumnae here and abroad.
“Our Assumption values are embodied in Plaidette: reusing resources, providing livelihood, preserving heritage,” says Grissel.
Orders for 2013 Plaidettes are being taken at the Assumption BED Family Council. To pledge for a Plaidette, call Regine at 8136291 or 0917-5391363.