EMPOWER HER: NEED OF THE HOUR

"Every woman deserves the chance to live a life of purpose and independence" – Hellen Keller

I am Karthikeyan, Founder of Sristi Foundation. Back in 2013, I was refueled with the aim to find a way to train rural children and adults with intellectual disabilities to be independent. To bring my vision to life Sristi Foundation was established where intellectual individuals can live, learn, work and generate income through Agriculture to lead a dignified life.

Over the last decade, we have witnessed the farm-based community transforming the lives of young adult men with intellectual disabilities. Many of our graduates now lead independent lives.

Until now, we have primarily supported Men with Disabilities. However, we recognize that the need of the hour is to support and empower women with intellectual disabilities.

Empower Her! Need of the hour!

In fact, women are doubly marginalized. In India, disabled women face immense hurdles, representing 44% of the disabled population. They battle discrimination and societal misconceptions that undermine their abilities, leaving them side lined and vulnerable. Lacking support and opportunities, they struggle to create dignified lives, often subjected to abuse and neglect.

Recognizing this pressing need, we at Sristi are initiating one of our biggest dreams and visions: establishing an Inclusive Residential Community for women with Intellectual Disabilities.

We need your support!

We have recently purchased 3.5 acres of land in Vanur Village, Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu, South India to initiate the Sristi Village community for Women with intellectual disabilities. But our journey is just beginning. We rely on your financial or in-kind support, vital for constructing necessary infrastructure and covering operating costs to realize this vision. Together, let us create a future where every single woman with disabilities leads a dignified life.

Objectives:

1. Foster Independence: Establish a farm-based community to provide a supportive environment where women with intellectual disabilities can learn essential life skills, enabling them to live independently and confidently.

2. Skill Development: Offer comprehensive vocational training in agriculture and farm management, empowering women with disabilities to acquire valuable skills that enhance their employability and self-sufficiency.

3.Economic Empowerment: Facilitate income-generating opportunities within the farm-based community, empowering women with intellectual disabilities to contribute financially to their households and achieve greater economic independence.

4. Social Inclusion: Create a welcoming and inclusive space where women with disabilities can actively participate in community life, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting social connections and support networks.

5. Sustainable Growth: Implement sustainable farming practices to ensure the long-term viability of the project, while also fostering environmental stewardship and providing a platform for women with intellectual disabilities to engage meaningfully in eco-friendly initiatives.

Target group: Women with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Socio economic status: Preferably from below poverty line

Area: Rural, preferably from families below poverty line

Number of Beneficiaries: 30