Empower deserted women and widows in rural India

Society is full of stories of women who have always played second fiddle to men of the community. Their lives were always in the hands of either their father, brother AND/OR their husbands and other male relatives.

So when fate throws them into situations where they cannot turn to any man, the women are totally lost, vulnerable and actually frightened.

Geeta, however had to gear up for life much before her husband died. A chronic drunkard, he was of no use to Geeta's household which had to see the education, food and upbringing of one boy and 2 girl children.

Actually he had a good asset as he was owner of a brick kiln. Due to his drinking, it was in shambles.

Geeta firmed her resolve, started learning this business, literally 'brick by brick' and also shoved her husband into helping with work.

Slowly an astute mind took over and the business started picking up.
In between, her husband succumbed to his liquor addiction.
Suffering her loss, but by this time, Geeta had made in roads into the business.
The funds provided by you all helped her to buy new material & equipment.

One day, smoke started emanating from the furnace and the brick kiln was on its way.
The family business was revived.

Brick making is not a small trade.
So, Chetana-Vikas women even helped her to link up with a bank, so that she could get more loan. Picking up labour, hiring vehicles, transporting bricks, bargaining a good price, choosing appropriate soil, running the kiln efficiently, bank transactions et al is done by Geeta herself.

This widow saw to it that her children get a good education, despite all odds.

The months of rainy season, when this brick making closes down, she has started making earthen deities of local gods and sells them in local market for these 5 months.

Friends, this is one of the stories where a small hand transforms lives manifold.
With a profit of Rs.50,000/- ($ 805) that she is able to earn, Geeta and her three children are looking forward to a healthier, brighter and more secure life. All due to your small hand of support.

Actually it also helps in realizing the inherent potential of these women who are usually driven to a life of drudgery, unending household work and usually subjugation. This life is not always their choice.
We would like you to note that Geeta is a pioneer entrepreneur who has taken up brick making in our region.

Taking a cue from Geeta, we also have to reconstruct lives of other needy women 'Brick by Brick'.

Direct all your friends to join this noble endeavor.

<http://www.globalgiving.org/projects/empower-deserted-women-and-widows-in-rural-india/,>.  

We are also accessible on <https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chetana-Vikas/162861643736214.>

Warm Regards,

Niranjana
Project Leader