I Feed "Pete" - American Leprosy Missions INC Tiny Pin - RARE pinback

Pete the Pig is a fundraising campaign of the American Leprosy Missions to cure and care for people suffering from Leprosy. This pin features the saying 'I feed "Pete" American Leprosy Missions, Inc.' to say that the person wearing the pin donates money to the NGO to fund the medical expenses of Leprosy. The funding began when a young boy was given a gift of 3 silver dollars. The boy, hearing about leprosy victims, purchased a piglet, fattened it, sold it at market for $25.00, then donated the money to the American Leprosy Missions, begun by the Presbyterian Church. His generosity sparked a movement, the children of America responded, and Leprosy became a cause. By the 1940s and 50s, this funding was in full swing, and doctors and researchers were available to further look for cures or procedures of care.

This pin is very small and very rare! In fact, the only one we could find was in a museum. It measures 9/16" in diameter, with the pin itself extending just slightly past the decorative piece.

**Vintage items may have wear or production imperfections. All visual imperfections are noted in the description; photos are part of the description. Questions welcome and thank you for shopping!