Jelt is dedicated to making a difference by enhancing
Photo: Wendy, mother of four and our team sewer, working in her rural Montana studio.
WHY OUR MANUFACTURING IS IMPORTANT
Functional and socially impactful, Jelt elastic belts are made from recycled plastic bottles and are manufactured in a way that empowers women.
In 2016, Jelt moved manufacturing of belts from China to Montana, which are now manufactured at the Women’s Prison in Billings, Montana, via the Montana Correctional Enterprise Program. This privileged program breaks the cycle of incarceration by interviewing, training and paying the women, giving them the skills and confidence needed to live a more productive life when released.
In 2018, Jelt expanded production to women living in rural Montana, as a way to support women residing in underserved markets.
“Since being employed through the MCE Industries program, I have come to believe that I can achieve so much more than I once thought. I have gained the confidence, responsibility and a work ethic I know I will carry with me the rest of my life and ensure a stable and productive future I can be proud of.” - Emily J.