Cross Trade began operations in 2003 by developing relationships with eight families located in the state of Ceará on the northeast coast of Brazil. Since that time we have grown to serving 50 families in six states stretching east from the Amazon region – Amazonas, Pará, Maranhão, Piauí, Ceará, and Minas Gerais. We purpose to help families located in non-tourist areas, remote from primary economic activity of Brazil.
In 2008 a warehouse was constructed in the state of Maranhão with funds provided by a generous donation. Maranhão was recently designated as the poorest state in Brazil. It is central to the other states in which we work, helping us control domestic shipping and storage expenses.
In 2011 we plan to develop a wood working shop for the men who presently provide products for Cross Trade. Our goal is to establish a facility with modern equipment to improve production and provide training for men without skills.