TOOLS FOR SOLIDARITY
We believe that we should all live simply so that others can simply live!
Tools For Solidarity is a not-for-profit organisation in Belfast. Our work is fully run by international, local and supported volunteers. And the main focus of our charity is to support artisans in the poorest parts of the world and mostly in the countries of Africa. This act of solidarity enables them to become more self-reliant and have some hope for the future.
Our Numbers This Year
17
VOLUNTEERS WORKED WITH US
Tools For Solidarity works with local and international volunteers, therefore if you want to take part in the project contact us!
300
ARTISANS WE HELPED
Our projects in Africa help local artisans to start a new phase in their lives by providing high-quality sewing machines and tools.
4900
DONATIONS WE SHIPPED
On an annual basis, we ship this incredible number of Northern Ireland donations to regions of Tanzania and the Lake District.
OUR STRATEGIC PLAN
It is essential for our organisation to plan the future and set goals both for the overseas partners and local volunteers. See our last Strategic Plan 2025 in the document down below.
Our Local Impact
Tools For Solidarity is proud to have an international impact on sustainability in the world. We also wanted to bring this idea to Northern Ireland and managed to create a few programmes that we run on an annual basis in Belfast.
EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The Education for Sustainable Development programme has been designed to create awareness about Poverty, Global injustice and Environmental issues. We deliver this programme to schools in Belfast and Northern Ireland.
SUPPORTED VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME
Tools For Solidarity believes that our modern society does not provide any valuable work to this group, whilst our charity gives people with special needs an opportunity to contribute to society positively.
REFUGEE AND ASYLUM SEEKER PROGRAMME
A few times a year, we run several workshops for local refugees and asylum seekers. During the training, participants learn how to use various hand tools and sewing machines and gain new skills in refurbishing and sewing.
LOCAL VOLUNTEERING
Local volunteering programme provides opportunities for people in Northern Ireland to participate in worthwhile and valuable work. We are open to participants from all walks of life, hence do not hesitate to contact us!
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Our International Projects
MWANZA SEWING & TRAINING CENTRE
Mwanza Sewing and Training Centre opened in 2006 to help with the development of the tailoring sector among the poorest sections of both rural and urban areas of the Lake Region of Tanzania.
NJOMBE PROJECT
The project supports and develops programmes in rural and urban areas of the Southern Highland Zone. The primary focus is to support artisans within both Njombe and Songea regions.
What People Say About Us
Donations take our word for it, at least that’s what our supporters say:
I bought 2 machines from SIDO-MSTC which made dramatic changes for my business. Later on, I even managed to employ two people to help me with my work.
Tailor
Runzewe-Bukombe
I definitely recommend volunteering with Tools. The project helps you to open your eyes on life of people abroad. As well as can change your life. As it happened to me.
Lorette
Volunteer
The MSTC-SIDO project made many changes in the lives of most tailors in Sengerema. Aside from that the project also enables our locals to gain entrepreneurship skills.
Project Manager
MSTC
Latest News
Our main news of the charity are posted on Social Media, so make sure to follow us there.
However, all our articles and interviews you can find exactly down below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Our organisation receives similar questions, and we would like to answer some of them.
In case you have some other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!
WHAT TIME DO YOU OPEN?
Our organisation is open from Monday to Friday. Opening time is 9 am, and we close the workshop at 4:30 pm.
WHAT DO YOU COLLECT?
Tools For Solidarity collects all types of tools and sewing machines, as well as materials for artisans in Africa.
CAN YOU COLLECT MY DONATIONS?
We are able to collect your donations directly from your home! It all depends on your location, however, it is possible in most cases.
CAN I VOLUNTEER WITH YOU?
Our volunteering programme is diverse and open to people both locally and internationally. If you have some free time, contact us, and we can discuss all possibilities!
Contact us
If you have any questions, leave us a message!
Our Supporters
