Support the widows in becoming financially independent

Mortality rates among age group 40 years and above is 86% higher than married women. There are more than 40 million widows in India and equal number of deserted women. Less than 11 percent actually receive the widow payments to which they’re entitled – meaning widows are at the mercy of their families. Deserted women often face significant legal problems and struggle with self-confidence after their husband leaves them for another woman. More than 83% of these women literally do not have any idea of what to do for themselves and their children after they are separated. Problems of alienation due to widowhood creates low confidence among women which results in economic and social problems for them and their families.

The project will create livelihood/Economic independence for widow or abandoned women in the age group of 18-45, each with average of 2 children and ageing parents, with no source of income or pension. Most fall under the consumer socio-economic status of E1 defined as unskilled workers with 5-9 years of schooling. Our program identifies these women, counsels them to develop the confidence to be independent. It then trains the women in different vocational skills (Computer / Nursing / Tailoring / Fashion Design / Kasuti) as per their interest and abilities, gives them business education and converts them into employable material.

We have been successful in giving a meaning to lives of 2000 women. RAPID Members experienced a substantial increase in income, from Rs 508.70 per month before joining RAPID and now they earn an average of Rs. 2648.91. Apart from this, biggest improvement is seen in members’ confidence, communication, mingling, stronger network. Economic empowerment of disadvantaged women brings positive growth in the region/society and reduces gender inequality. Many such women can soar high, only with your support.