omen W ACTION of
Community Savings Groups
Transforming the lives of women and their communities
CANADA
Bangladesh 101 Formerly known as East Pakistan, Bangladesh was born after a bitter civil war. Bangladesh has the highest population density in the world, with its population crammed into a delta of 58 rivers that empties into the Bay of Bengal. Two thirds of the population are farmers who grow significant quantities of rice, tea and mustard.
DID YOU KNOW? Child marriage is one of the biggest barriers to girls achieving a proper education. 60% of women cannot read or write Most families are landless and forced to live on and cultivate flood-prone land Millions of girls and women are still facing cultural oppression and are trapped in poverty
Community Savings Groups FH learning and savings groups are providing a safe and supportive environment for women to realize their value and potential. We invite the most vulnerable in the poorest villages to form groups and save money together. These women then meet weekly to learn basic skills and practical, lifesaving knowledge to protect and provide for their children. Working together, they are able to develop the means and confidence to lift themselves and their families out of poverty. FH currently has over 900 groups meeting across Bangladesh. With your support, we can offer more women this life-changing opportunity.
Key Outcomes of Savings Groups Developing small businesses Group members are taught to read, write and count and are trained in specific vocational and business development. Soon, small businesses spring up as women start to use their new found-skillsm and savings to provide for their families.
Raising self-esteem Females are seen as so inferior that mothers often weep when they give birth to daughters. Group members find these community groups a place where their dignity is restored. We walk alongside each woman’s family and wider community, challenging negative cultural perceptions of gender inequality.
Protecting family health Infant, child and maternal mortality is high but often preventable. We teach group members basic health, hygiene and first aid practices, and enable them to recognize and prevent the spread and symptoms of infections and common diseases.
Discovering rights & preventing child marriages Because women are particularly vulnerable in the area of family law, they are taught about their legal rights and the rights of their children in areas of family conflicts such as dowries and multiple marriages. With the support of our staff, they are equipped to challenge injustices and protect themselves and their children from exploitation.
To sponsor one savings group: $70/month or $840/year
Sign up by calling 1-800-667-0605 or visit:
www.fhcanada.org/women
FH Canada, part of the global Food for the Hungry (FH) network, is a registered, non-governmental organization dedicated to sustainable development and emergency response worldwide. For more information or to donate please visit: www.fhcanada.org