 Esperanza Threads: Bedford, Ohio
Esperanza Threads was founded by Ursuline Sister Mary Eileen Boyle in 2000 as a democratically operated cooperative that employs low-income individuals at a fair wage, manufacturing organic cotton clothing in Bedford, Ohio. The name esperanza means "hope" in Spanish and Mary Eileen says: "We have a big hope for all those who are and will become a part of this cooperative and succeeding cooperatives." Mary Eileen envisions the cooperative as a way to help create systemic change; an example of a different economic system; one where everyone's basic needs can be met. Members of Esperanza are partners with faith communities and civic groups where they speak on the issues of fair wages, outreach to the un-employed and under-employed and the need for reducing chemicals in our personal and global environment. Sr. Mary Eileen Boyle
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