Mercy Marketplace nurtures self-development through entrepreneurship

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 18, 2021
Contact: Kim Mercer, kmercer@mercyconnections.org, (802) 274-3043

Mercy Marketplace, a Pop-up Website Featuring Local Artisans, Opens Monday, November 22nd

Burlington, VT— Mercy Connections’ Mercy Marketplace is an annual pop-up arts and crafts fair, which will be accessible through an online store at www.mercymarketplace.shop from Monday, November 22nd until December 12th. The shop features hundreds of imaginative items made by local artists, crafters, writers, and photographers who have participated in small business development classes at Mercy Connections.

“This full-semester program teaches business skills while fostering the creativity and confidence of our talented participants,” said Mercy Connections’ Executive Director, Lisa Falcone. “The online marketplace is an opportunity for the community to shop and buy unique gifts while supporting local makers. These items make wonderful gifts, just in time for the holidays!”

The website features a “Meet the Artists” section which includes bios of the Mercy Marketplace participants and links to their projects. Crochet artist Dar Hall’s bio states, “As someone with multiple health challenges, crochet gives me purpose, focus, and challenge. I’m focusing on amigurumi (stuffed animals) currently because the world needs as much love and comfort as possible right now.”

Shoppers can browse items by artist, or by categories such as “Cards & Stickers,” “Fiber Arts,” or “Cuddly Toys & Games” to find homemade crafts, original artwork, music, books, jewelry, and more. All proceeds from sales go directly to the participants.

Mercy Marketplace is made possible through support from the Community Economic Development Office (CEDO) of Burlington and the People’s United Community Foundation. Learn more about Mercy Connections’ programs and mission at www.mercyconnections.org.

###

Mercy Connections, founded in 2001, is an educational, values-driven social impact non-profit organization that empowers people to make significant life changes through education, mentoring, entrepreneurship training, and community.