Since 2016, our programs have been focused on lifting the Greater New Haven area, socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, including artists, artisans, and makers who are in recovery from homelessness, immigrants and refugees, and other locals. We help them create micro-enterprises, and small businesses and become better-adjusted productive citizens. We do this by providing a combination of
1. in-depth sewing mixed with the business of fashion education.
2. connecting them with the local community of business instruction, incubator/acceleration programming.
3. financial training,
4. safe housing (in progress).
Programs and Press
Tinaliah The One who perseveres" team
Catherine Cazes-Wiley
Director/Instructor
Long of a nomadic history, Catherine observed in 2018, that the artisan economy, a $34 billion industry overseas then, was rarely present in the US. An artisan herself and Milliner (hat maker), she has encouraged others through an holistic approach to step in, finding avenues to increase revenues and well-being. The non-profit has helped in the creation of 6 businesses, taught over 40 students and helped 8 clothing brands. Here networking in Fair Haven, a distressed community.
John Wiley
Photographer, Hat handler.
Photography: John worked 45 years in the school system as a Behavior Technician. He is our beloved photographer. Now retired, he cleans and blocks the hats. Let’s talk! Leave us a message in contact.
Sophie Greer
Former Fashion Model and Alterationist
Sophie Greer started her own alteration small business called “Sewing Place in New Haven “after taking Threads & Needles sewing workshops. The former Ford agency fashion model, who passed away during Covid will never be forgotten.
Sharon 'Shay' Jones
Seamstress
Seamstress whose specialty is making one of the kind beautiful apron and bag, Crochet Master and Storyteller. She has lived through it all (homelessness, disability...). Her stories are of perseverance and kindness one after another. She started an alteration business serving people in her neighborhood.