Empowering Marginalized Communities During COVID-19: A Journey of Resilience and Hope
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges worldwide, with marginalized communities bearing the brunt of its impact. In response, various initiatives were undertaken to support and empower vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This blog highlights some of the key activities carried out to alleviate the hardships faced by these communities during the pandemic.
1. Kaagapay Fund: Supporting Feminist Resilience
From 2020 to 2022, the Kaagapay Fund initiative aimed to bolster the resilience of marginalized women and girls who were disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program provided both economic and psychological support to 150 individuals directly and reached an additional 881 people indirectly. By offering much-needed psychosocial and financial assistance, the initiative helped families navigate the severe economic and food crises that emerged during the pandemic.
2. Home-Based Tika Making: A Path to Economic Empowerment
The lockdown measures imposed during the pandemic left many marginalized women without a source of income. In response, a training program on home-based tika/bindi making was launched, targeting 10 economically disadvantaged Muslim women. This initiative empowered these women to earn Rs 250-300 per day, providing them with a sustainable means of livelihood even during the lockdown. The success of this program highlighted the importance of home-based industries in fostering economic independence for marginalized women.
3. Mapping Vulnerable Women and Girls: A Lifeline During the Pandemic
Understanding the needs of the most vulnerable was a crucial step in delivering effective support. A mapping exercise was conducted in ward numbers 5 and 6 of Ishanath Municipality in Rautahat district, identifying 150 families of women and girls who were most affected by the pandemic lockdown. This initiative ensured that assistance was directed to those who needed it most, laying the groundwork for targeted interventions.
4. Psychosocial Support: Healing Minds and Hearts
The psychological toll of the pandemic was profound, particularly among vulnerable families. In response, psychosocial counseling and mental health support were provided to 150 families. A psychological expert was hired to conduct counseling sessions, offering moral support and helping participants cope with the stresses brought on by the pandemic. These sessions played a crucial role in restoring hope and resilience within these communities.
5. Farmyard Manure and Organic Production: Nurturing Sustainable Livelihoods
To combat food insecurity and promote sustainable agriculture, training and support were provided to 150 women and girls in farmyard management and organic manure production. This initiative not only improved animal sheds but also enabled the production of organic manure, which was then used for crop cultivation. By empowering women in agriculture, the program helped secure their livelihoods and ensure food security during the pandemic.
6. Financial Literacy Training: Building Economic Resilience
Economic empowerment was further strengthened through financial literacy training for 30 women and girls engaged in commercial agriculture. This training equipped them with the knowledge and skills needed to manage their finances effectively, ensuring that they could sustain their businesses and provide for their families during the challenging times brought on by the pandemic.
7. Fostering Community Resilience and Recovery
The impact of these initiatives extended beyond immediate relief. By providing basic agricultural supplies and promoting the production of organic manure, families were able to cultivate crops for both personal and commercial use. This not only aided in their economic recovery but also fostered a sense of resilience within the community. Beneficiaries reported feeling more positive and motivated to invest their time in productive activities, demonstrating the program’s success in reviving hope and livelihoods among the most vulnerable groups.
8. Addressing Gender-Based Violence: Engaging Faith Leaders
The pandemic exacerbated issues of gender-based violence (GBV), necessitating a focused response. A province-level training program was conducted for faith leaders, raising awareness about the GBV issues that had intensified due to COVID-19. The training emphasized the role of faith leaders in combating GBV and supporting affected communities, highlighting the importance of a collective effort in addressing these critical social issues.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, especially for marginalized communities. However, through targeted initiatives focusing on economic empowerment, psychological support, and community resilience, it was possible to mitigate the adverse effects of the crisis. These efforts not only provided immediate relief but also laid the foundation for long-term recovery and empowerment, ensuring that the most vulnerable could emerge from the pandemic with renewed strength and hope. As we move forward, the lessons learned from these initiatives will continue to guide our efforts in building a more inclusive and resilient society.