5 Fair-Trade Gifts Under $25 That Actually Mean Something
Most gift shops sell mass-produced items that end up in a drawer. We're different.
For over 50 years, the UNA Gift Shop in downtown Palo Alto has been sourcing handcrafted goods directly from artisans in developing nations. Every item has a story — and every purchase funds UNICEF's work for children worldwide.
Here are 5 types of gifts our customers keep coming back for:
1. Handwoven baskets from Ghana & Rwanda — Each one takes days to weave. They're functional art that supports women's cooperatives.
2. Soapstone carvings from Kenya — Small enough for a desk, meaningful enough to start a conversation. Carved by hand in Kisii.
3. Tagua nut jewelry from Colombia — Called "vegetable ivory," these pieces are sustainable, lightweight, and stunning.
4. Beaded accessories from South Africa — Vibrant Zulu beadwork that directly supports local artisans.
5. UNICEF greeting cards — 100% of proceeds go to UNICEF. Perfect for the person who has everything.
We're 100% volunteer-run. No salaries, no overhead markup — just fair prices that go straight to the people who made them and the children who need help.
📍 552 Emerson St, Palo Alto | Tue–Sat 11–5, Sun 11–2
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