Encourage Dreams Grant Recipient - Sarah Barrett | Sew Accessible
We recently ran our first ‘Encourage Dreams Community Grants’ round. The ‘Encourage Dreams Community Grant’ is an exciting initiative by Enriched Care Solutions for people with disabilities, people working in the disability sector and their family members! Our $1000.00 community grant is designed to help people overcome the financial barriers that may get in the way of their dreams and ambitions.
This week, our grant recipient was chosen by our selection committee. We are thrilled to announce that Sarah Barrett has received our grant of $1000.00 to encourage her dreams for her business, Sew Accessible. Sew Accessible makes clothing for children who have medical and sensory needs. Her goal is to use the grant money to buy a new machine to keep up with growing demand!
We were so moved by Sarah’s application, she truly ticked all the boxes. AND we were dying to know more about her fabulous business. So she’s kindly answered some questions to fill us in on all the details!
Enriched Care Solutions (ECS): Tell us about yourself; what’s your name and who’s in your family?
Sarah Barrett (SB): My name is Sarah and I live with my husband, 5 year old and 2 border collies.
ECS: What do you like to do for fun?
SB: I like to knit and go on adventures with my 5 year old.
ECS: What’s your business called?
SB: Sew Accessible
ECS: Why did you start your business?
SB: A friend’s child was going through cancer treatments and she was unable to find clothes that fit their child’s needs so I made them some. We are also an active part of the prem (premature birth) community as my boy was born at 28 week and a lot of the parents also said it was hard to find what they need. I was also looking for a job that could be done flexibly as my child started school.
ECS: Can you share a story of how your business has helped someone in your community?
SB: Recently I have sent bodysuits with side seam/G-tube access to a 6 year old and she was instantly happy and laughing with the bright colours and soft fabrics. Her mum sent me a message a week later to let me know that they have the added benefit of allowing access for observation, so she has the dignity of staying dressed in a doctor’s appointment.
ECS: Why do you love what you do?
SB: I love seeing the smiles on little ones faces when they are comfy (and often bright) and getting messages from the parents about how practical the items are.
ECS: How will the Encourage Dreams Grant help you achieve your dreams?
SB: It will help me to upgrade my equipment and improve efficiency, so that I can make best use of the limited sewing time I have and help more kids be comfy and practical.
Congratulations again, Sarah! Make sure you’re following Sew Accessible on Facebook, and visit their website to keep in the loop with Sarah’s updates - we certainly will be!