Rotary Update: Linda Hoops works to weave a brighter future » Evansville Courier & Press

Linda Hoops works to weave a brighter future » Evansville Courier & Press: "The program was the brainchild of childhood friends in Manila. Lulu Trinidad-Ocampo adapted a technique of weaving folded newspaper sheets into bags and wallets. She realized the skill could be a source of livelihood for those in need and developed it into the 'Bags for Life' program.

Newspaper sheets are folded by disabled workers and then woven and sewn into bags by women who do the work in their homes. The program allows them to make a living and it is a way to recycle newspapers and plastic bags.

Ocampo's sister, Mila Trinidad-Puyat, who is now the president of a Rotary Club in Manila, partnered the marketing arm of her organization with her sister's project. Once the bags are created, the Rotary project, called D'yario Bags, buys them in bulk, adds some painting and creative touches and resells them.

Puyat told the Philippine Daily Inquirer that the bags practically sell themselves. The same program has been successful in other parts of the Philippines.

Hoops learned of the program on one of her yearly visits to the Philippines. She brought back a suitcase full of the bags to sell and use for not-for-profit auctions here. But she believes it could become a cottage industry here as well."