By Maksuda Akter Hridi | Exicutive, Partnership, OBHIZATRIK Foundation
Overview
SHOKKHOM is a Sustainable Livelihood Project that began in 2017 to empower economically disadvantaged individuals in Bangladesh. Over the years, it has transformed the lives of more than 3,000 families, enabling them to achieve financial independence and stability. The project provides essential support, including skill development training, mentorship, and access to vital resources, ensuring long-term success for beneficiaries.
Currently operating in 17 districts across Bangladesh, SHOKKHOM has utilized Zakat and Sadaqah donations to provide recipients with various livelihood opportunities. Beneficiaries have received rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, vans, sewing machines, food carts, livestock, and business setup assistance, enabling both men and women to earn a stable income and support their families.
Challenge
In Islamic tradition, Muslims are required to donate a portion of their wealth annually in the form of Zakat, which is intended to support those in need. However, in Bangladesh, Zakat funds are often used to provide clothing and food, offering only temporary relief. While these contributions bring short-term happiness, they do not help recipients escape the cycle of poverty.
Recognizing the need for a more sustainable approach, SHOKKHOM was established to ensure that Zakat money is utilized effectively, not just to provide immediate aid, but to create lasting financial stability for disadvantaged families.
Solution
The SHOKKHOM project has proven to be a transformative initiative, offering a structured pathway out of poverty for many families. By channeling Zakat donations into income-generating assets and entrepreneurship opportunities, the program enables beneficiaries to become self-reliant and financially secure.
Through skill training and mentorship, SHOKKHOM equips individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to build sustainable businesses. With continued support from donors, the project aims to break the cycle of poverty and establish self-sufficient livelihoods for thousands more families in need.
Long-Term Impact
Beyond economic empowerment, SHOKKHOM prioritizes gender equity and community development. The program encourages both men and women to participate in income-generating activities, allowing families to thrive and fostering a culture of shared responsibility. Women, in particular, are supported in taking leadership roles, helping to build inclusive and progressive communities.
Additionally, the project emphasizes the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), recognizing their importance in driving economic growth and reducing unemployment. By nurturing entrepreneurship, SHOKKHOM not only helps individuals achieve financial independence but also contributes to the overall economic prosperity of Bangladesh.
Conclusion
SHOKKHOM stands as a beacon of hope for disadvantaged communities, offering a sustainable pathway to financial stability. With more donor support, the project can continue to expand, empowering thousands of individuals and ensuring that Zakat funds create lasting and meaningful change.
Project reports on GlobalGiving are posted directly to globalgiving.org by Project Leaders as they are completed, generally every 3-4 months. To protect the integrity of these documents, GlobalGiving does not alter them; therefore you may find some language or formatting issues.
If you donate to this project or have donated to this project, you can receive an email when this project posts a report. You can also subscribe for reports without donating.
Support this important cause by creating a personalized fundraising page.
Start a Fundraiser