Thistle Farms was created by Becca Stevens in 2001 in Nashville, Tennessee. For over 20 years, Thistle Farms has lit a pathway of healing and hope for women survivors of sexual abuse, trafficking, prostitution, and addiction. Most of the women they serve first experienced sexual abuse between ages 7-11 and began using alcohol or drugs by age 13, and first hit the streets between the ages of 14 and 16. Traumatic childhood experiences give way to homelessness, addiction, further abuse, and incarceration, often compounded by poverty.
They believe that love is more powerful than all the forces that drive women to the street, and a strong community will help them not only heal, but thrive. They provide housing, healthcare, counseling, and employment for two years - free of charge.
They create natural, high-quality bath and body products that help heal with their ingredients and love.
Founder Jay Gardner of Newnan, Georgia, spent 20 years in prison during which time he was inspired by his fellow inmates whom made jewelry from torn pieces of old paper. This led to his vision of Torn Pages jewelry. Free today, Jay is dedicated to helping others shake off life’s shackles and repair their Torn Pages and spread the message
of Hope, Peace & Strength.
Torn Pages bracelets are weaved with 100% recycled paper by women in Africa while being supported with meaningful fair trade employment.
Torn Pages supports other local Georgia non-profit organizations through collaborations. Among these are Empowering Men & Women on the Move Re-Entry, Inc., Real lIfe Center, Camp Grace and Coweta F.O.R.C.E.
Based in Orlando, Florida, Blossom is a unique work opportunity, employing adults and teenagers with developmental disabilities. Their team produces amazing all-natural artisanal products while gaining meaningful employment and learning skills that last a lifetime.
Many individuals with developmental disabilities are unemployed. Blossom knows that many of these folks are able and willing to work given the right environment and support. Blossom provides a culture of empowerment that fosters independence. Their artisans are responsible for each phase of the business, from hand producing our soaps, candles and bath teas to packaging, shipping and sales.
Blossom products are all natural and handmade in small batches. Their goat's milk soaps, soy wax candles and essential oil bath teas provide clean, nourishing and sustainable options for customers. Blossom only uses sustainably sourced palm oil by vendors who are members of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).