The Big Push: Helping Families in Poonagery and Periyakulam Meet Their Basic Needs
Shanika’s Struggle: Fighting to Feed Her Family
In Poonagery, Shanika is a mother of three struggling to keep her family fed. After losing her husband, she was left without a steady income or support system. Most days, Shanika can only afford two meals for her children, and the dream of sending them to school feels impossible.
With no skills, resources, or opportunities, Shanika faces challenges every day just to meet her family’s basic needs. Her story is not unique—many families in Poonagery and Periyakulam are living in similar circumstances, on the brink of survival.
The Graduating the Poor Approach: A Big Push for the Poorest
For families like Shanika’s, escaping extreme poverty requires more than just temporary aid. It demands a big push—a comprehensive, sustained intervention that addresses the root causes of their struggles.
This is where the Graduating the Poor program steps in. Designed specifically for families who are unable to meet their basic needs, the program provides a pathway to stability and self-reliance. Over 18 to 24 months, families receive:
- Livelihoods training to build sustainable incomes.
- Asset transfers to jumpstart their progress.
- Continuous mentorship to guide them through the challenges of rebuilding their lives.
Why This Program Works
- Targeting the Most Vulnerable Families
In Poonagery and Periyakulam, we focus on families who are struggling to eat three meals a day or send their children to school. Through a careful selection process, we ensure the program reaches those most in need of a big push to break free from extreme poverty. - Tailored Solutions That Empower
Every family works with us to create a Family Development Plan, a roadmap to move from survival to stability. This isn’t about handing out aid—it’s about empowering families to set and achieve their own goals, building confidence and agency along the way. - A Holistic Approach to Overcoming Poverty
The program addresses all aspects of poverty, ensuring families have the tools and support they need to thrive:
- Livelihoods Training: Equipping Shanika with the skills to start a sustainable income-generating activity, like home-based tailoring or farming.
- Community Networks: Connecting families with neighbors, local organizations, and government services to create a safety net of support.
- Mentorship and Hope: Providing ongoing guidance to help families navigate challenges and regain hope for the future.
Why Focusing on Basic Needs Matters
For families at the bottom of the economic pyramid, the first step out of poverty is the hardest. Without enough food to eat or resources to meet basic needs, it’s impossible to think about education, livelihoods, or long-term stability. This program provides the foundation families need to start rebuilding their lives.
How Your Support Can Help
Your contribution will help families like Shanika’s by:
- Providing the tools and training needed to build a livelihood.
- Ensuring access to food, education, and basic services.
- Empowering families to take charge of their futures and build resilience.
This Is More Than a Donation—It’s a Lifeline
In Poonagery and Periyakulam, families like Shanika’s are fighting every day just to survive. Your support can provide them with the big push they need to break free from poverty and build a brighter future.
Donate today to help families meet their basic needs, achieve stability, and rise above poverty. Together, we can create lasting change in Poonagery and Periyakulam.