Carry The Hope's Story
It all started with a visit to Swami Sivananda Memorial Institute (SSMI), a school in India where bright-eyed students, eager to learn, sat in classrooms with limited resources. I, Ahilya Dugar, had come to support their education, but as I listened to their stories and dreams, I realized I wanted to do more—something lasting, something meaningful.
That’s when the idea for Carry the Hope was born. Inspired by the artistry of traditional block printing, I saw an opportunity to not just to sell beautiful bags handcrafted by women artisans, but to weave a bridge between communities. Each bag is hand-printed with care, blending heritage with purpose. But more than that, every purchase directly supports education for these students, empowers women, and fosters a pen-pal program that connects them with young people across the world.
Through these letters, friendships blossom, dreams are encouraged. And with each bag sold, a student gets closer to the future they deserve.
This isn’t just a bag—it’s a story of impact, tradition, and connection. And you are a part of it.
Thank you for carrying more than just a bag. You’re carrying a mission.
Gallery
Explore our handcrafted bags and the stories they carry.
Pen Pal Program
Carry the Hope is dedicated to addressing the educational disparities faced by millions of children worldwide. Education is a vital tool that equips individuals for their future aspirations, yet countless children are deprived of essential resources and quality schooling. To tackle this pressing issue, I have designed a unique approach that intertwines fundraising with cultural awareness. My outreach efforts have led me to the Swami Sivananda Memorial Institute & School (SSMI), an establishment focused on providing education to underprivileged children. The school not only offers academic learning but also houses a factory where women from impoverished backgrounds are trained in the arts of block printing and textile stitching. By empowering both children and women, Carry the Hope aims to create a ripple effect of positive change within these communities, fostering a brighter future through education and skill development.
As a way to burgeon cultural awareness, specifically in children, I have implemented a pen pal program that connects local elementary school students with children in SSMI. Through simple and genuine letters, students are able to share aspects of their daily lives which in turn fosters a global perspective and builds emotional connections that demonstrate the value of education. Each student will be paired with a pen pal, with whom they will exchange letters. This benefit students on both ends as they can share stories about their daily lives, school experiences, and traditions. The pen pal program not only empowers children to become more culturally aware but also strengthens the mission of Carry the Hope by inspiring others to value and support access to education worldwide.
Get in Touch
We'd love to hear from you! Reach out for inquiries about our bags, programs, or collaborations.
Contact
484-321-6931
Support
ahilya@carrythehope.net