Bihar is a state in the North of India. If it were a country it would be the sixth poorest in the world. Women in village communities have a low social status and often suffer social isolation.
The Trust runs 3 sewing centres in our project villages, but we urgently need new sewing machines and equipment to keep these centres open. They each provide a supportive environment and training in sewing skills to up to 40 women and young girls at any one centre. When a certain skill level has been reached the women can apply for an interest free loan to buy a sewing machine which provides a very important source of income.
This project brings women whom have no voice together in supportive companionship whilst they learn a skill which can give them financial independence. Through the centre the women often become empowered in other ways, standing up to physical abuse.
We work in areas of great poverty where sometimes it is difficult for people to see hope. Women can be terribly isolated often with no one to turn to for help or support. This project brings women together and gives them new found strength and hope.
