Pure Art Foundation / Fondation Pur Art

The Pure Art Foundation (Business Registration Number: 847098787RR0001) is a Canadian registered charity dedicated to empowering marginalized communities to achieve sustainable development through programs focused on health, shelter, education, and entrepreneurship. Founded in 2005, the organization primarily serves families residing in the Manantay slums of Pucallpa, Peru, who face significant challenges such as lack of access to clean water, housing, education, and primary healthcare services[2][3].

History and Founding

The Foundation was established by Brigitte and Robert McKinnon following a humanitarian visit to Pucallpa with their family. During this trip, they encountered impoverished communities living without essential resources. Recognizing a pressing need, the McKinnons created the Pure Art Foundation with the mission of enabling these communities to become active, resilient, and economically independent participants in their development[3].

Mission and Approach

Pure Art Foundation’s mission centers on sustainable, capacity-building initiatives designed to improve the quality of life for disadvantaged populations. The Foundation focuses on transparency and accountability, ensuring that donations directly support community development programs[2].

A distinctive aspect of the Foundation’s work is its partnership with the Pure Art Boutique, a not-for-profit retail outlet and Fair Trade Federation member. This partnership allows the Boutique to cover the Foundation’s administrative costs, guaranteeing that 100% of public donations are allocated to programmatic efforts. The collaboration embodies a model called The Art of Shopping with a Purpose™, which integrates Fair Trade principles with artisan craftsmanship to generate social impact globally. By working directly with artisan cooperatives and fair trade brands, Pure Art creates a ripple effect fostering social change and economic empowerment for artisans in marginalized communities[2][3][5].

Programs and Impact

The Foundation’s programs focus on the fundamental needs of communities such as:

• Improving access to healthcare and sanitation
• Building safe and durable housing
• Facilitating educational opportunities for children and adults
• Supporting local entrepreneurship and skills development

These initiatives aim to foster sustainable growth, resilience, and economic autonomy among beneficiaries[2].

Partnerships and Fair Trade Commitment

Pure Art Foundation’s model extends beyond traditional charity by embedding Fair Trade’s nine core principles into its operations. This approach not only reduces poverty but also promotes ethical consumerism and sustainable livelihoods. The Pure Art Boutique acts as both a funding mechanism and a bridge connecting consumers with globally sourced, ethically made Fair Trade products[3][5].

Recognition and Presence

As a registered Canadian charity based in Vaudreuil-Dorion, Quebec, Pure Art Foundation is recognized for its innovative and sustainable approach to international development. Its work continues to inspire and mobilize support for impoverished communities, particularly in Peru, through artistic and economic empowerment initiatives[1][4].

This overview summarizes the Pure Art Foundation’s commitment to fostering sustainable community development through health, education, housing, and Fair Trade-driven economic programs. Their innovative partnership model and dedication to transparency have established the Foundation as an impactful organization in the realm of international charitable work.