Big turnout for Palestinian craft fair
A South Surrey craft fair has raised $8,600 to support Palestinian artisans whose livelihoods have been shattered by the war in Gaza. The Palestinian Craft Faire, held Nov. 29 at Peninsula United Church, drew what organizers called “a great turnout” of local residents eager to shop for a cause.
Co-organizer Janice Young said there was a long line of people waiting to pay, but shoppers stayed patient, chatted with one another and left grateful for the chance to help. “Folks bought lots of stuff and were very appreciative of the opportunity to support the Palestinian people,” she said.
How the idea came together
Young and church member Kathy Booth organized the event after a November visit to The Church at South Point by Katryn Harris, who shared stories from the West Bank. Harris has been working to build support for artisans there after seeing firsthand how conflict and lost tourism have cut off income.
Her stories inspired Peninsula United to host a sale featuring handmade goods from Bethlehem and surrounding communities. Booth later described the fair as “a tangible way people could support the Palestinian people,” adding that organizers were thrilled by the community’s response and the sense of connection it created.
Where the money will go
Proceeds from the sale will go to charities working directly in Bethlehem, including L’Arche Bethlehem and Bethlehem Bible College. Both organizations support vulnerable people, from people with disabilities to students and families trying to rebuild their lives.
For organizers, the $8,600 total represents more than a dollar figure. They see it as “some hope for a place of much sadness” and a sign that South Surrey residents want to stand alongside Palestinian artisans and communities in a difficult season.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X
Leave a comment