All profit from your ethical collection purchases goes towards funding Oxfam's work fighting poverty and suffering around the world. The rag picking community of Shanti Bushti, Lucknow, India, comprises 210 households. Their language and culture differs from the wider population of Lucknow and makes them particularly vulnerable to discrimination.
With funding from Oxfam, local partners are able to support minority communities like this one through provision of basic services, school buildings and facilities. The Apna Kendra bridge school offers a sensitive learning environment that promotes hygiene awareness and regular cultural trips. This and similar projects help minority communities link with government schools and the wider society, to break the trend of social segregation. All funds raised from the ethical collection are spent where they are needed most. Photograph: Tom Pietrasik/Oxfam