It seems incredible that it is 8 months since we were in India visiting Fredrick and Reeba, but it has been wonderful to receive news from the Tailoring Programme this week. Reeba testifies to the impact of this programme in rescuing women from despair. Lakshmi, a 23 year old widow from a Hindu family, had two children and was rejected by her own family, relatives and neighbours when her husband died due to a heart disease. She felt that suicide was the only option available to her, but through the tailoring programme found hope and joy. SHe now lives with her in-laws and although she is still struggling to pay off debts from her husband’s medical and funeral expenses, she is now looking forward to graduating in January 2018 and building a new life.
90% of the women who complete this programme find jobs in a garment factory with the rest starting tailoring businesses in their homes.The goal of the programme is to see the community totally transformed and self-sufficient, with poverty eradicated and dignity restored. One such example is Mrs Sathya who now makes 8000 rupees a month in a garment factory, three times more than she had previously been able to earn.
Reeba asks for prayer for the women in the tailoring classes. 60 additional sewing machines are needed by the third week in January and an interlock machine is also needed for further training.The needs are great, but she is confident God will supply all their needs.
The ladies who graduated in July 2017:
