Two factories (Diseño ACMM, Catalogo) are WRAP certified. This means they are certified according to twelve "Worldwide Responsible Apparel Production Principles." The Principles encompass human resources management, health and safety, environmental practices, and legal compliance including import/export and customs compliance and security standards. Catalongo, the factory we use for our largest category (knits) has received WRAP Platinum certification.

Right now, we are also producing at two factories (4S Textil, Tsonkiri) that are not WRAP certified, however, they are in the process of receiving their certification. WTS (World Textile Sourcing, our production partner) has committed to supporting the cost of having both factories officially become WRAP certified and they are currently undergoing the costly and lengthy review process. In the meantime WTS closely monitors both factories to ensure that all WRAP principles and Peruvian government standards are met. Tsonkiri is on track to earn their certifications by the end of the calendar year.

The other three facilities where we produce our garments (TAP, Marga, and Alpafina) are currently too small to receive WRAP certification. After thorough review, our choice to support these smaller operations is based on their strengths and skills and our desire to employ local artisans. As they grow, our production partner, World Textile Sourcing, will support them in receiving their certification. Much like 4S Textil and Tsonkiri, WTS closely monitors each of these facilities to ensure that all WRAP principles and Peruvian government standards are met.

Racchi is one of the traditional heritage communities located high in the Andes Mountains just outside of Cusco, Peru. Cusco is a tourist town and a stop for many people on their way to Machu Picchu or the scared valley, but surrounding Cusco are many small villages. Due to their isolation, the ancient traditions of Incan society are still the way of life in Racchi. The goal of WTS’s initiative is to improve the quality of childhood education. This is done by introducing tools that will help improve the community’s quality of life, while still respecting their culture and traditions.

Since 2014, WTS has been donating sewing machines to schools in Racchi. This donation helps parents, children, and teachers make uniforms, aprons, and personal items for the community. In addition to the sewing machines, they provide fabric, thread, elastics, and training. By teaching this skill not only are they increasing future income potential, but they are also creating a more engaged way of learning that fosters creativity. This program is designed to help the future generations in Racchi meet their own needs and preserve their way of life.

Physically improving the schools for safety and comfort is another component of this initiative. So far, WTS has been able to complete the following projects in Racchi: creating additional classroom spaces, reconstructing the library and greenhouse, implementing classroom textile/tooling audiovisuals, building a pedagogical park, and renovating roofing and water systems. They have also helped to create bio gardens in the community. Farming methods are taught as part of a workshop and the vegetables grown in the bio garden are then distributed among the community. The locally grown fruit and vegetables improves the overall health in Racchi.