Be a part of someone's freedom story
Freedom Co-op is an outlet in New Zealand for goods made by freedom businesses, businesses empowering women who have been trapped in the sex trade by providing them with alternative employment opportunities. By purchasing their products, you are not only supporting these brave women but also giving them a chance to rebuild their lives and achieve a brighter future. Every purchase you make helps to break the chains of slavery and brings hope to those who have suffered unimaginable hardships.
Who are we?
Starting with just a banana box of products and a heart for exploited women in Kolkata, this not-for-profit enterprise has grown into a passionate group of volunteers from Hamilton, New Zealand. For over fifteen years, we've been advocating for fair trade and supporting freedom businesses that offer women an alternative to the sex trade, where many never had a choice. Our goal is to break the cycle of exploitation and change the world for future generations.
Freedom businesses we support
-
Shop Starfish Project Products
The Starfish Project is a non-profit organization that helps women who have been trafficked into the sex industry in Asia by providing them with employment, education, housing, and support services. The Starfish Project's approach is rooted in the belief that every life matters and that small actions can create meaningful change. They work tirelessly to provide a safe and empowering environment for women who have been exploited and trafficked, with the goal of helping them rebuild their lives and reach their full potential.
-
Shop Love Calcutta Arts Products
Love Calcutta Arts is a non-profit organization in Kolkata, India, working to break the cycle of poverty and prostitution in families affected by the sex trade. Their handicrafts unit empowers vulnerable young women to support themselves with dignity, providing education and healthcare resources for them and their families. Love Calcutta Arts aims to prevent future generations from being impacted by prostitution by creating sustainable change in the lives of those affected by the sex trade.
-
Shop The Loyal Workshop Products
The Loyal Workshop is a leather goods manufacturing company in Kolkata, India, founded in 2014 to provide employment and fair wages to women rescued from human trafficking and sexual exploitation. By creating sustainable jobs and supporting women's economic independence, they aim to break the cycle of poverty and exploitation. They produce high-quality leather goods using traditional techniques and eco-friendly practices, while prioritizing transparency and accountability. The Loyal Workshop partners with other organizations to end human trafficking and exploitation, and advocates for policy changes that support women's rights and economic empowerment.
-
Shop Yafe Products
Our brand "YAFE" means "beautiful" in Hebrew. Yafe House is a place where women tangibly experience freedom in every sense of the word. Where once they were captive to someone else's desires, they are now empowered to stand firm and have hope for their future. It is a beautiful thing to see. Yafe House's products are all handmade using high-quality, traditional hand-block printed fabrics from Jaipur. Each woman puts her personal touch and flair into the final product so you know you are purchasing something that played a part in the artisan's professional development and personal healing journey.
-
Shop Joyya Products
Joyya (formerly Freeset) is a social enterprise that produces eco-friendly bags and accessories in Kolkata, India. Their main goal is to empower women who are vulnerable to sex trafficking by providing them with job training, education, and fair wages. Joyya believes that through their work, they can create a world where women are empowered and protected from exploitation. They produce sustainable products using eco-friendly materials and are committed to ethical and sustainable production practices. Overall, Joyya's mission is to make a positive impact on the lives of exploited women in India while spreading awareness about sex trafficking and advocating for change.