By Cassandra Spohn
In 2019, Parkland resident Juliana Ramos was inspired to do more for others in need after seeing a group of women sewing outfits for children in Africa and Haiti.
Not knowing where to begin, she turned to where most people learn how to do it themselves: YouTube.
“I wanted to learn how to sew, so got on YouTube, bought a machine, and started making shorts and dresses,” said Ramos, who lives in Parkland Reserve. “I was able to learn enough that they would accept my outfits.”
Originally buying all the fabric herself, Ramos soon realized that the costs of making the shorts and dresses were growing as she started to produce more.
Ramos turned to Parkland’s online community to see if others might be interested in helping, and the outpour of support was almost overwhelming.
She received a huge response from residents in Parkland with fabric donations and even met amazing people who sew that now help her.
Fellow volunteers Margit Goyzer, Elizabeth Domschke, and Ruth DeAraujo.
Among those volunteering their time with Ramos are Bonnie Addicott, Elizabeth Domschke, Margrit Goyzer, and Ruth DeAraujo. Addicott has sewed 130 dresses for Ramos.
Volunteer Bonnie Addicott
“I feel so much gratitude for our community response and involvement for this cause,” said Ramos.
A true labor of love, Ramos receives no compensation for her time, and she is not affiliated with a non-profit organization.
Today the busy mother of two, that didn’t know how to sew, has around 150 dresses and 150 pairs of shorts ready to be donated to one of her favorite organizations, Little Dresses for Africa.
“I love to help people, and I feel like I’m doing something meaningful,” said Ramos. “After this unexpected response, I can say that Parkland is ‘sew’ strong!”
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