Kuchinate African Refugee Women's Collective

Kuchinate is an NGO that serves over 200 of the most vulnerable women from the African asylum-seeking community of South Tel Aviv. Without legal refugee status, they do not have access to unemployment, public health resources, and social services. Kuchinate women are survivors -- of trafficking, domestic abuse, and torture. Many are single mothers. Our mission is to support and empower these women so that they may work towards financial independence and stability, while also providing psychosocial support to help them heal from the immense trauma they have faced since fleeing their home countries. In order to achieve this mission, Kuchinate provides its women with a variety of resources and support systems. The women earn a fair, sustainable wage by creating beautiful, hand-made, contemporary products inspired by African culture that are sold around the world. Kuchinate holds lessons and workshops so that the artisans can build and develop their skill sets. The act of sitting together in a communal environment whilst crocheting baskets and making products out of vibrant African textiles is therapeutic and helps the women cope with their difficult realities. In addition, Kuchinate provides therapy sessions with professional social workers. In order to give holistic support, we also offer hot communal meals, rent sup Located in South Tel Aviv, Kuchinate serves a community that faces racism, governmental neglect, and unreasonably low wages. Our mission is to support and empower the women of this community so that they may work towards financial independence and stability, while also healing from the immense trauma they have faced since fleeing their home countries. Our talented team of employees, volunteers, and interns work collaboratively with asylum-seeking artisans and managers in the studio everyday, striving to fulfill this mission. Asylum seekers deserve to live dignified and empowered lives. Learn more, join our mission, and take action at Kuchinate.com.