ReUse by Ajuda de Mae is a social enterprise in Santarem that empowers unemployed and socially vulnerable mothers-mostly migrants-through training in sewing and creative textile reuse. In a shared atelier, mothers acquire technical and personal skills while transforming textile waste into reusable, sustainable products. The project promotes employability, income generation, social inclusion, and circular economy practices.
Many mothers in Santarem face long-term unemployment, precarious work, social isolation, and limited access to professional opportunities. Most are migrant women with low support networks. These socioeconomic barriers make it difficult to achieve autonomy, integrate into the labor market, or support their families, trapping them in cycles of vulnerability and exclusion.
The project offers technical training in sewing, personal empowerment, and real income opportunities through a social business that transforms textile waste into sustainable products. Mothers work in a supportive atelier, gain skills, reduce isolation, and participate in product creation and sales. Partnerships with companies provide materials, visibility, and pathways to employment and reintegration.
ReUse strengthens economic autonomy, reduces social isolation, and increases employability for vulnerable and migrant mothers. By combining environmental and social goals, the project promotes circular economy practices and long-term income opportunities. Families achieve greater stability, mothers develop confidence and independence, and communities benefit from reduced waste and stronger social inclusion
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
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