As we approach International Women's Day on 8 March, I want to highlight again the work we are doing to help women experiencing poverty. Much of our work helps women because they are often the most vulnerable within communities.
As a girl, you are less likely to go to school and therefore learn a trade to earn an income. They often have less rights and are more at risk in times of change.
At CAFOD, we work all over the world helping women and girls to learn new skills and empower themselves so they can start earning money to improve their lives. These World Gifts are just an example of some of the work we do:
Precious period pads £15
After a disaster hits, women are often left without the basics. This empowering charity gift helps provide hygiene products such as soap and reusable sanitary pads to help women and girls cope in the midst of a crisis.
Women refugees empowered £52
All refugees face challenges, but women refugees often have more barriers to overcome: increased risk of violence, less access to educational support, and difficulty finding suitable work. Vocational training is a great way to help women refugees gain more independence – supporting them to set up businesses, earn money and contribute to their families.
Life-changing loan £200
This gift epitomises what an opportunity at education and earning an income can do for someone. From helping families to accept that women can help to earn an income, to helping women gather confidence in their communities. This gift really is life-changing.
Sewing kit £21
Learning to be a seamstress can bring in a steady income, enough to save up to go back to school. A sewing kit includes everything a newly trained seamstress needs to get going, including a worktable, scissors and tape measure.
Women’s Support Centre £50
We can all experience trauma and when we do; it is so important to have a safe space to be listened to and to heal. Quite often, women who face traumatic events can be isolated in their communities – unsure of where to turn for help. This highly compassionate gift can help vulnerable women to receive the support, training and tools needed to re-build their lives.
Home for life £192
In some cultures, a widow has no right to their marital home if their husband dies, leaving them and their children on the street. This gift provides legal aid to ensure families stay in their home, safe from the threat of eviction.
Help us stand in solidarity with women all around the world. We've put together some gifts we think you might find particularly suitable for your Mum, sister, granny, Aunty, friend or just overall inspirational woman in your life! Women's empowerment gifts