Jul 2, 2018

DEAR FRIENDS *****EDITED*****

Later this week, I am going to launch a project that I have resisted for a very long time.  As you probably figured out from my preview, I have created a Spinster Stitcher logo that is going to be imprinted on t-shirts, and I am going to sell them on this here blog.

I am also launching the Spinster Stitcher Stitchy Store, and hopefully every month or so will have a different stitchy-related item imprinted or embroidered with something fun. I'm thinking tote bags, blankets, travel mugs/sippy cups, journals, etc. 

*****Sorry to confuse...the t-shirt is the only item that will have my logo. All of the other items will have a "generic" stitchy related logo. I just wanted to do the t-shirt as a 10year thingie.******

Here's the problem...

Last year at this time I was the recipient of a level of generosity that I still have not been able to wrap my brain around. At one of the very lowest moments of my life, you all opened your hearts and pocketbooks and (quite literally) put a roof over my head.  CS2 is my home because you secured it for me. I thank God for that (and you) each and every night when I put my head down in the big girl sleigh bed.

There are funds remaining from that miracle, and they are in reserve for my eventual trip to Indianapolis for a kidney transplant, but it turns out that kidney transplants...while covered by insurance...are damned expensive. My portion of the adventure will be quite a bit, so I am doing as much as I can to prepare myself physically, emotionally, and yes...financially.

All of this is my long-winded way of asking for your forgiveness if you are in any way offended that I come to you with my hand out after I was given so much, and to tell you that all of the proceeds from the sale of items on my blog wiill go into my kidney transplant fund.

If this does offend you, please come talk to me about it. If I have completely miscalculated here and am risking ruining a 10-year relationship with you...I will scrap the whole damn thing and will find another way. 

So that's the plan, Dearies. I hope your very own Monday is off to a swell start!  Come tell me all about it!

86 comments:

  1. I am not offended at all. All of us must do what we have to do to survive. I purchase stitchy stuff all the time for pleasure (I cant possibly address them all as I have a VAST collection) and my pocket book strings are pretty tight!. I would be HAPPY to have a Spinster Stitcher her very self item (possibly signed?) and be happy to support you while I'm doing it! Perhaps even sell charts you have stitched. I love your stitching and your projects!!! Love,hugs and prayers, Cathryn ♥♥♥

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  2. Sounds great to me Connie! Chronic illness is horrendously expensive, especially in America. Have no shame about creating some merchandise to help you financially pay the bills. If some don't like it, well, they're probably healthy and have no reference point for the struggle of those less fortunate.

    As a sufferer of severe chronic illness myself I won't be able to contribute to your fund, but support it fully and think your design is super cute. I like that you made the tee shirt stitcher character not only a super hero (with glasses over her mask!), but svelte as well. Cuz that's what I look like too (LOL). ;)

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  3. I think this is a brilliant idea. I am constantly buying "stitching stuff", so why not from you. At least we know it is going to a wonderful cause - YOU! If people get offended, they need to get over themselves. No one is making them buy anything, so they just need to hush. GOOD LUCK!

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  4. You need to pay for a kidney!! Do what you have to do!

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  5. Great idea and I am not offended at all. I agree with Cathryn that you could also sell some patterns you have already stitched. One suggestion, though - you might want to consider not including the Spinster logo. Since many stitchers are married, they might not want to wear or use something with a single woman connotation. I hope I'm not offending you...just wanting you to be able to reach a wider audience.
    Carolyn

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  6. I am with J Lee! And besides, everyone has to have a way to survive the life they are given. If doing this makes you happy, so be it! Happiness is part of the whole life thing and I do believe you having happiness will help you stay healthy!

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  7. What we think should be of little concern. We can participate or not. We know your situation and understanding is a part of reading about you and your life. I think it's a win-win. Count me in-in.

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  8. Coni-I think it is a great idea and I am not offended at all. You have been so brave and handled everything that has come your way with such strength. Of course you need to have that money in reserve for your transplant. However this idea is a good one and I for one can see myself parting with some of my own money to get one of those great t-shirts.

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  9. I think this is a brilliant idea. I, for one, will totally support your endeavor. Especially if you offer totes or HUGE coffee mugs. Just wish I was young enough to give you a kidney. Whatever you want/need to do, I will support.

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  10. Not offended and I don't think anyone should be! No one is forcing anyone to buy from the Spinster Stitcher store.

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  11. I love your idea Miss Spnister. I know how expensive transplants are and that the meds you will need after your transplant are expensive as well. Glad to cheer on your endeavors.

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  12. Not offended at all and looking forward to seeing what you have in your Spinster Stitcher Stitchy Store!

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  13. I missed the chance to help last year, so looking forward to being able to help now!!!

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  14. I love that you are independent,strong, willing to commit to your health and such a funny, REAL lady! I will be proud to support you,Coni, in any way I can. Can't wait to see your "shop." I hope you have autographed pics of Stewey to sell! I sure would love one.

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  15. Doesn't offend me either Coni and only you would be that concerned about our feelings to ask, God love ya!
    I continue to admire your strength and courage as you face each challenge head on! I love this idea...sort of like your very own lemonade stand ;)

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  16. Not offended in the least. Why won't other items have your logo? I would buy and I am sure many others would also.

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  17. Earning a living is not offensive. Selling stitch items is a way to earn a living. In your case, you are saving for a transplant just like others save for house, cars, etc. Personally I thin the stitch items without a logo will go better - practical yet distinct. Such as a large mug with Damn Good on it - useful for coffee or tea or hot chocolate. Think about your pricing - you need to keep it reasonable so you sell more yet remember to include all your costs - creation of item, shipping materials (not shipping cost), gas to go to the Post office or other shipping place, storage of products (if not in house), cost of selling, your time for bookkeeping (sales tax, income tax, inventory, etc) and so on. Don't forget to cost to set up your business Legal zoom does well for that), etc. Check out Café Press who often sells items for non-profits. Sorry but you won't qualify to become a non-profit. I love the idea but please be practical and protect yourself.

    JM

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  18. What's to be offended about? You are offering stitchy stuff for a price like any other entrepreneur. The difference is, we know the blessed good our purchase will
    do for a beloved Friend. So set up your stand and we will
    whiz by to pick up some of your special goodies... What a
    dignified approach to underwriting this cause.... an exchange.....

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  19. Given that half the people on here would offer you an actual kidney if they could, I can't see anyone objecting to purchasing a tote bag or coffee mug from you!

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  20. It's a wonderful idea. Can't wait to see your products!

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  21. I'm a lurker who LOVES your wit and humor. Not offended at ALL!! Figuring out a way to help yourself, priceless!!!

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  22. I'm in. I also like the idea for a big mug with damn good on it. Or anything else you come up with.

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  23. Wonderful ideas, and I will be happy to make purchases!

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  24. I'm confused by what you view as a problem. You are not forcing anyone to make a purchase nor did you force anyone to donate to your cause. If you have my size I will gladly buy a T-shirt or any other stitchy stuff that you may offer. I hope this endeavour takes off like fireworks on the Fourth of July. You go Girl!

    Sandra in Texas

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  25. You go girl! Hooray to/for my hero!
    Luv,
    MaryO1230

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  26. You are amazing and its just like someone who dyes threads for us stitchers to buy. i love your blog and although may not buy anything you keep going. you could also do a canvas design or cross stitch pattern for download on etsy - lots do this and we don't judge them for making money.
    all my best wishes and blessings always from down under in Kiwi land.

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  27. Certainly not offended and I applaud your ingenuity in focusing on your health and figuring out a way to pay your expenses! You go girl. Can't wait to see the rest of your items!
    Hugs
    Rose

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  28. My vote is for the mug with "Damn Good" on it!!!! you go!

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  29. I want a Damn Good mug!!!

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  30. Hey! That's a great idea! "Damn Good" mug! Any other stitch things as well.You are a very talented writer and a lovely lady who is loved by so many...you provide and we will purchase....bet Jersey Boy has some great ideas, too...logo should be on as much as possible...go girl!

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  31. I LOVE this idea! I’m pretty sure that I’ll be able to find something that I’ll happily wear/slurp/ around the neighborhood. And I’m also giving you another vote for the “damn good” mug!

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  32. Offended?! Pffft! I’m offended I can’t buy anything yet! Get that store up and running! Yes, a damn good mug! Stitchy needle minders?! Can’t wait!

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  33. I'm sorry, how can anyone possibly be offended by this? Lots of people sell things - there's a big market for needleminders these days - for all kinds of reasons. Why take offense? I'm not jumping on you, Coni. I know you're just trying to head the nasties off at the pass. I would hope that those less charitably inclined would have moved on by now.

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  34. Yep, we're all good here! (And a Damn Good mug would make an awesome Christmas present. . . . . I got a list! It would be a public service, really. . . . . )

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  35. a coffee mug (MC1576) with DAMN GOOD!! a best seller!!!! you got it girl!!!

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  36. Coni, I can't imagine that there are too many of us who have the faintest idea what kind of financial burden are this is placing on you. You list your home, you've managed to create a new space. But you still have to deal with dialysis 3 times a week, countless doctor's appointments, fussy Fuzzy and Beeoy (or whatever they are lol). I'd say you have a much better idea what is still needed in the Coni Kidney Fund. I may not be able to purchase everything you'll have, but I'll do my best.
    Blessings, love, hugs and prayers to you and all your loved ones riding this journey with you.

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    1. Obviously, my typing skills leave a lot to be desired and I hope you're able to get the gist of what I mean!! I'd edit if I knew how!

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  37. Blessings! Do what you need to do to get that kidney! No problem here with you finding a way to reach that goal. I’ll be looking at the stitchy goodness for sure. ��

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  38. I can't imagine why anyone would be offended. I echo some of the suggestions above, with the following further observations:
    1. Nix the spinster stitcher logo -- it's cute and features all of "our" in-jokes here, but I don't think you're going to sell many of them.
    2. The "damn good" coffee mug -- or dare I say it, a fee shirt with a depiction of said coffee cup on it -- could sell. Ditto fridge magnets, note pads, tote bags, etc.
    3. The term "spinster" has been reclaimed/rebranded in recent years -- I think you COULD sell some merchandise (see #2 above) with that as the theme.
    Good luck!

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  39. Your plan sounds good to me. I don't wear T-shirts with writing on them, so the coffee mug would be a nice alternative.

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  40. I will buy your merchandise as my budget allows.

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  41. You are creative and doing what you need to do. No offense at all! Can't wait to see what you have.

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  42. Mugs are expensive to ship. My advice is to come up with ideas that are lightweight and easy to ship. Two things come to mind: (1) enamel pins using your own art, e.g., in the shape of a mug that says Damn Good!, and I would definitely love a SS-SuperHero pin to attach to all my project bags. I mean who doesn't need to bring along a superhero everywhere, right? (2) vinyl decals for car windows, mirrors, appliances, even coffee mugs. For both of these there are businesses ready to make up your batch order after you supply the art.

    Another idea is to try to come up with something for the buyer to download. I am particularly in love with articulated paper dolls of animals and have bought quite a few of them on etsy. I download the file, print it on card stock, cut out and punch tiny holes to attach limbs with tiny brads. Having one of Stewey that I could make dance around and torment my cats would be so awesome. One of your superhero design would also be pretty cool.

    I'm never in favor of t-shirts but if you want to go that route, there are also businesses that will make you an iron-on of your design so we can put them on tshirts or tote bags, or throw pillows, etc. Why sell the t-shirt when it's more about the art itself?

    Debbie in SB

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    1. Debbie, you are so creative. You should be promoted to marketing consultant!

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  43. I love the idea of merchandise. You use the proceeds as you see fit.

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  44. Spinster stitcher fuzzy socks and jammies (the official team uniform)!!

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  45. I am all for it so you go girl!!!! I am a sucker for stitchy items. Think Christmas gifts for our like-minded friends.

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  46. Smart, smart, smart! You deserve the best! I am looking forward to your line of products. You are so creative that i am sure they will be fabulous. I will be a shopper.

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  47. I think it is a perfect idea! And depending on shipping to Canada I will be purchasing one for myself :)

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  48. Coni. Know that The Betty’s of the worldbwill never be happy but also know they are in the very small minority! Go for it. And i want a mug or mug magnet that says Damm good! Deby

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  49. I LOVE your ingenuity. You are a true entrpreneur and I love that about you. Please post the catelog so I can shop at my leisure and point all my friends to your site.

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  50. You go, Girl. You ae doing the right thing at the right time for the right purpose. You are supported.

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  51. DAMN GOOD mug sounds wonderful!

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    1. I agree. I don't care if it costs twice as much to ship as the mug itself costs. I WILL get one of these mugs. The only other thing I would add is to make sure any of these items are of good quality. You go girl!

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    2. Actually, now that I think about it some more, while an actual coffee mug is great, a travel mug would be something that would be taken outside of the house and THEN when other people see it, it will start a conversation and you will sell more. That's the best outcome.

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  52. I too like the mug idea. I am not offended, I am in the same health care boat, no paddle and a big leak. My bucket isn't big enough to control the flood. Good luck.

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  53. Bring it on! I will be shopping! I am hoping for a "damn good" mug and something Stewey related. I just loved your little guy. I think this is a brilliant idea! Looking forward to all you have to offer!

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  54. Gotta have a "Damn Good" mug! Seem like lots of your followers think so, too. Do what you can and we will support it! Just don't over do!

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  55. I would love Spinster Stitcher pajama pants. Can't wait!!!

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  56. How about a needleminder of the coffee mug? I sometimes wear mine like a pin on my shirts.

    Or a car magnet in addition to the car decals someone mentioned above.

    Or you could design a pattern and sell that so it could be stitched anywhere; on a shirt or bag.

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  57. I think that is a wonderful idea!

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  58. Love the Damn Good needle minder idea!

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  59. I think this is an amazing idea and you are a certified genius for coming up with it. If anybody says otherwise, I'll give them a piece of my mind for you. BTW, can't wait to order my very own mug or needleminder. (Check Beth Twist's Etsy site for ideas regarding mugs.) You go girl!!!!

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  60. Go Spinster Stitcher! I am a long time reader, and one of those who was able to help you in your time of need. I fully support your idea. I live in Canada, and can’t begin to imagine what it would be like to have to worry about the cost of necessary medical treatment while dealing with the challenges of an illness. My only question is how soon can I buy a t shirt. In the full figured size, thank you very much!

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  61. You are starting your own brand! It won't be long until you are as famous as the Kardashians. Do what you have to do to feel better.

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  62. Not offended! Put me down for some stitchy stuff. One can not have too much, you know...

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  63. We are your peeps and it's high time we had a uniform!! Can't wait.
    Robyn in MA

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  64. "Damn Good" idea Coni:))

    Good luck on your endeavors!!
    Hope your are feeling well.

    Happy 4th.
    Mama Joan

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  65. How about a”Stewey” line of merchandise. He’ll be a hit.

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    1. I agree ! Two things come to mind - a pdf pattern for an image of him. and second, outfits for little dogs... smoking jacket... always wondered what that would look like !

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  66. I'm SO in for a t-shirt at the very least! And I would totally love a magnet/needleminder.

    Get that shop up & running, gorgeous! We're here & ready to buy!

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  67. Haven't read all the comments, only the one directly before mine from Liongoddess. It says EXACTLY how I feel! .... and a stitcher can never have too many needleminders nor too many projects. Would LOVE to see all your ideas, but the minute the T-shirts are available, I'll be in line. Also love the idea of a Stewey theme, too. Hang in there, Coni....we've all got your back!

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  68. Good for you Coni. Will ++ size be available for us +size stitchers? Coffee cup "Damn Good" will be ordered when you list it!

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  69. Great idea! If anyone has a negative thing to say about it, I will happily dismantle them on your behalf. It's the least I can contribute to the cause. LOL

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  70. Coni, have you heard of CafePress? I think Zazzle is similar. Both are Print on Demand sites where you can design products - mugs, tote bags, t-shirts - and they are made to order. That means you don't have to invest in the merchandise and all the set up cost. Just design your artwork and choose your items. Here's a list of ten sites: http://plaintips.com/sites-like-cafepress. Might be a good way to test your product designs and gauge interest. Best of luck, and I think it's a wonderful idea. Fingers crossed that you'll get the call for your kidney soon!

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  71. Count me in! Love the idea of the magnet/needle minder. Can't wait to see what you come up with!

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  72. I think it is a super great idea, and I will be needing some of those T-shirts asap! ;)

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  73. Great idea! Mugs, travel mugs, magnets should sell quite well. I vote for items like those to say Damn Good! I will be a customer for sure. Also some people recommended you sell charts of items you've stitched. Please be careful as there are copyright infringement issues and such if the charts were created by someone else. Good luck!

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  74. I meant needle minder/magnets. I would get those for my stitch group. We love that kind of thing and for such an important cause.

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  75. I think it's a great idea. I will be looking forward to buying some things. I love to shop online and you will be the first seller that I actually know a little bit. I like to read your blogs and it makes me feel good to know I am not the only person with health issues. I am not glad that you have health issues. I am glad that i am not alone. Hope this makes sense.i have diabetes and it is always a complication in my life that I have to take into consideration no matter what I do. As long as I stay in my little routines I do ok but any little thing different that I do can cause a low blood sugar and can stop me in my tracks. So I have to prepare and think things through and say no to people much more than I want to.thanks for giving me a place to vent.i will be looking for your products. Please use PayPal as a way for us to pay. Thanks

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  77. I am not offended at all. In this particular case you are not receiving charity as people will receive an object for their money such as said T-shirt, mugs, or whatever. There is nothing wrong with that. I can say that I, for one, would love to have your logo T-shirt and other items as you set them for sale. Thank you :)

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