By Drew

Having been a long time fan of Farm Sanctuary I was so excited to get their facebook update today introducing a new line of tee shirts designed by American designer John Bartlett.

Most of us want to support causes we are passionate about.  What better way to do that than by getting something for your donation.  Personally I think this is the new face of charity, not that the practice is new.  I think that fundraising through commerce is one way we can all contribute, feel good, and outwardly support those who inspire us.

Gone should be the days of $1000 dollar plate luncheons and silent auctions for the rich and famous… Tacky.  I’m not going to completely turn my nose up at this activity so long as money is being raised for a good cause.  Truth is, after the expenses (of throwing a gala worthy of such guests) are paid, the actual amount reaching the organization of honor is significantly less than the money raised.  Few really consider that.

Back to John Barlett.  I became familiar with him last year when he launched his Tiny Tim collection to help raise funds for his own nonprofit animal-rescue organization, “The Tiny Tim Rescue Fund” which helps support independent rescue groups across the country.  10% of the profits of this clothing line go directly to his organization, but it wasn’t the non profit support that initially piqued my curiosity, but the amazing three legged dog silhouette logo emblazoned on all the pieces.  I love when the design of any given object is as strong (if not stronger) than it’s charitable backbone.  Gaining the attention of not just those who want to support the cause, but anyone who simply loves the product for more… superficial reasons.

The new line of tee shirts titled the “Ambassador Collection”  are black 100% cotton with a bleached out silhouette of a cow, chicken, or pig.  On the sleeve is a number in the millions or billions representing the number of whichever animal featured on the shirt are slaughtered on deplorable factory farms for food each year in the US.  The numbers are subtle yet staggering.  Best of all they’re not in-your-face depictions of slaughtered animals likely to turn stomachs.  There’s a place for that, but not on a tee shirt.  This design can only help to start the conversation of why Americans rely too heavily on factory farms that employ disturbing and inhumane practices.  I would add that I don’t think you have to be a vegan to support Farm Sanctuary.  Although Gene Bauer (totally buy his book!) may disagree, if you must eat meat,  you can do a little research or frequent a farmers market and purchase meat products raised on small farms that treat their animals with respect and slaughter them as humanely possible.

The tee shirts are $40 (yes, more than a tee shirt at Target, but remember they’re raising money for a good cause and it’s considerably less than that $1000 plate) and available on John Bartlett’s website: johnbartlettny.com.  Do yourself a favor.  Contribute.  Feel good.  Buy one!

+ share or save this post