TPF Single Mothers Fund

Dear TPF Donors,

Since launching in September, the EmpowerHER Single Mothers Fund has brought together 35 women working toward economic independence thanks to your support! As we move through the 10-week program, we want to share what we have learned about the women who applied, the barriers they face, and the opportunities your support is helping create.

The Women Behind the Numbers

• Ages 28–55, with an average age of 42.
• 11 cities represented across Türkiye.
• 25 professional backgrounds, from engineering and law to education and journalism.
• Nearly 80% identified caregiving responsibilities as a major barrier to employment.

All applicants are university-educated, yet many have struggled to translate their qualifications into financial independence. Most carry primary responsibility for their children's care, often without consistent financial support. Among those who disclosed their income, the majority reported monthly household earnings below $429.

These numbers highlight a critical reality: for many single mothers, education and professional experience are not enough to overcome the structural barriers to employment.

Beyond the Numbers

Throughout the program, participants have spoken about wanting financial freedom, rebuilding their confidence, and becoming role models for their children. Just as importantly, they are finding strength in one another.

As one participant shared:

"What unites the women in this group is the courage to move forward independently, and I’ve seen that courage in all of you. I remind myself that these difficult days will pass, too. I’m so grateful to have you all in my life."

Her words capture something that numbers alone cannot: the importance of community and solidarity in rebuilding a sense of possibility.

What Comes Next

35 women were selected for the first cohort, while other applicants will be connected with relevant resources through our partner NGOs.

With the program now past its halfway point, participants continue to build skills, professional connections, and pathways toward employment or entrepreneurship. Each mother’s journey through the ten weeks represents an investment of about $1,700, and we’re committed to showing you what that investment returns as the cohort concludes.

Thank you for investing in a future where single mothers have the resources, opportunities, and support to pursue economic independence.

Warm regards,

Team TPF