'The women are discovering that they have good ideas, that they can contribute to the household income and produce beautiful, quality products '.

Currently, 25 Bedouin women are participating in the Operation Mercy cross stitch project. They sew and cross stitch items such as purses and bags in different sizes and traditional designs, bookmarks and wall hangings. Items are sold to both locals and foreigners.

Take a look at their 'facebook' page with more contact details.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nabadia-Craft-Jordan/129168973817011?sk=info

Haneen was very happy when she was given cross-stitch work for the first time. She learned to do cross-stitch when she was young, maybe in 7th grade. She once said, "nobody trusted me to do something well. But you gave me work and you like my work. That has given me self confidence."

Natalie's family has to live on very little money. When her mother has no work picking olives or harvesting vegetables, there is hardly any income. So Natalie gives the money she earns from the project to her mother to buy food and clothes for her siblings. Once in a while she can save up to buy something for herself.

Shori started her last year of school after the summer. With the money she earns from the project she can buy the school books she needs and is able to finish school studies and work. She is determined to make a better life for herself.