SOUTHERN SINGLE MOMS HOPE TO START OWN BUSINESS

TRYON, NC - A group of single mothers never dreamed a small black laptop box filled with scraps could become an opportunity to provide their children with presents this Christmas, but it did.

The women are using the discarded fabrics, buttons, sticks and even ham bones to create beautiful dolls that rival collectibles sold in expensive shops and boutiques. Prices start at $10, but most cost about $35.

The mothers started about a month ago, and the dolls are for sale at the Red Clover Gallery in Landrum through Wednesday.

The women say they won't stop making the dolls after the holidays. Each is sewn by hand and has a story to tell.

Dolls with names like "Hero" and "My Little Ginger Baby" are some of the latest creations.

The sewers' fingers have small scratches and scars from working so hard, but they hope making dolls can become a full-time business and a way out of poverty.

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You can contact the Red Clover Gallery at (864) 457-3311 or info (at) redclovergallery.com

Supporting single mothers -- it isn't about bailouts or handouts. It's about finding what someone can do, and helping her do it.