Handcrafted work that carries the ministry.
The “coco shop,” as we affectionately call it, turns discarded coconut shells into handcrafted goods — sustaining the work of the home and teaching a trade to the women and girls in our care.
Why coconuts?
Coconuts heavily shape the tropical culture and cuisine of the Dominican Republic. All along the coasts, local vendors known as “coqueros” (pronounced koh-KEH-roh) sell fresh coconut water and meat, creating massive piles of discarded shells. Seeing an opportunity when funding for Lifehouse was running dangerously low, a creative missionary stepped in. Rachel Snead worked with our eldest daughter in transitional care to transform these abundant wasted shells into a beautiful source of sustainable income.
Who makes the products?
Lifehouse has been able to hire local women, including our young adult in transitional care, to become skilled artisans in our Coco Shop. Our teenage girls are encouraged to join when they are free from chores and studies, so that they can begin learning the trade and develop money management skills. However, none of our girls are required to work in our shop.
What is the process?
Now, with 4-5 artisans working in our program on any given day, we are seeing dirty and rough coconut shells transformed into works of art. Our staff works with power tools, machetes, and hand tools to de-husk, cut open, sand, and create! Mission teams come to visit, learn the process, and create their own products to purchase, aiding us with much-needed funding.
What kind of products do you sell?
Our artisans create coconut shell candles, key chains, ornaments, tea light holders, and more! In addition, our shop purchases T-shirts, hats, magnets, and other items with our logo to sell so that our Coco Shop is always stocked!
Where can I purchase items?
You can contact us for specific wholesale orders, but we are currently mostly selling at in-person events and in our physical Coco Shop in the DR. We are open to boutiques and other in-person stores in the US carrying our products. An online shop is coming soon!
A look at the work.
Carry our work in your shop.
Boutiques, churches, and event hosts are welcome to reach out about wholesale orders. An online shop is coming soon.
Contact us