At the heart of our work in India is the wish to create space for women to dream again. These women have survived so much heartbreak and loss that they often begin to feel defined by surviving, by just getting through each day.
On the first day of each cohort, when women are welcomed into the program, we start talking about the future. We ask what they want, what they think is possible. When the dreams begin to form – usually in two or three months – we start asking how they think they can achieve those goals. What specifically do they need? What specifically can they do?
It takes time for a mind to shift from surviving to thriving. From just trying to make it to trying to dream in color. This is why our program length is somewhat flexible – each cohort and the women in it need different amounts of time.
But a shared dream begins to take shape. Slowly at first, and then with more momentum and more excitement, the women in our program began talking about a dream of opening a shop in Chennai. This shop would be a dedicated space for selling the products that they make, and would increase their reach for potential buyers.
We're so happy to report that on November 15, India's national Children's Day, the dream came true: Priyam Global renovated a shop space and opened a storefront in Chennai!
This little shop is home to baskets, jewelry, and other products handmade by the MAHLA family of women. We also hired a woman as a full-time employee to manage the shop, and the mothers were so excited to make their first sales and share the profits.
Thank you so much for all of your support and belief in our work. This is the kind of work that your donations create in India: opportunities for steady work and self confidence, growing dreams and new futures, and stronger mothers – who create stronger families.
Supporting a mother is the best way to help a child. Thank you for helping us create opportunities for mothers of children with disabilities to support, empower, and learn from one another — creating friendships and networks between women that are strong and lasting.
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