Alternative livelihoods for 500 ragpicker families

Rehana, a 38-year-old mother from one of Kolkata’s most marginalized communities, is a symbol of strength and resilience. She lives with her husband, two daughters, and one son in a small settlement. Despite the crushing challenges of poverty, she has never stopped dreaming of a better future for her children.

Her eldest daughter is in Class 10 and preparing for her crucial board examinations. Her son is in Class 5, and her youngest daughter attends the local ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) school. Like every mother, Rehana dreams of seeing them grow into educated, confident individuals who will not have to endure the struggles she has faced.

But life has not been easy for her family. Back in 2018, Rehana was earning just 50 (about $0.60) a day by doing slippers strap trimming. Her husband worked as a rickshaw puller, bringing home 180 (about $2.20) a day, out of which he had to pay 70 ($0.85) to the rickshaw owner. Their combined daily income—barely enough for one decent meal—was nowhere near sufficient to support a family of five.

That year, with courage and hope, Rehana reached out to Tiljala SHED’s Self-Help Group (SHG) for support. She borrowed 20,000 (around $240) to buy her own rickshaw. For the first time, her husband could take home all of his daily earnings. This small step was a turning point—it brought dignity, stability, and hope into their home.

Encouraged by this progress, in 2019 Rehana took another bold step. She borrowed 30,000 (around $360) from Tiljala SHED to start a small waste recycling business. For a while, this provided additional income and relief. But life struck another cruel blow—the local corporation demolished her tiny warehouse as it was on the footpath. With her livelihood suddenly gone, many would have given up. But not Rehana.

Refusing to let despair win, she used her skills and determination to start afresh. She invested in a sewing machine and began working as a tailor from home. Today, Rehana earns around 400 (about $5) a day through tailoring. With this income, she is able to provide her children with proper clothes, school supplies, and the chance to pursue their education—something she was once unsure would ever be possible.

Rehana’s story is not just about survival—it is about transformation. It is about how a small opportunity, a little financial support, and the courage of a woman can completely change the future of an entire family.

But there are countless women like Rehana in our communities—women with untapped potential, waiting for a chance to stand on their own feet. With your support, Tiljala SHED can empower many more mothers to rise above poverty and build a brighter, dignified life for their children.

 Your contribution can help write many more stories like Rehana’s. A little support can spark a lifetime of change