International Women’s Day, on March 8, is a time to reflect on the achievements and contributions of women around the world.
Here’s a story that illustrates how Hope Ofiriha’s microloan programs can help carry a woman from a life of poverty to one of dignity, independence, and leadership as the chief executive officer of her own business.
Grace Kamatoro grew up facing harsh circumstances. Her brothers and sisters resettled in Canada and Australia. Grace decided to stay in Africa to fight poverty to the end. From a young age, her situation appeared to provide little hope for the future. When she became a mother, she could barely afford to provide for her children.
But with two simple assets – a sewing machine and a small loan from Hope Ofiriha – this mother was able to set up a profitable business that provides a valuable service to her community and an employment opportunity for others who are struggling to support themselves and their families.
And her children? They’re all in school now, able to dream about their futures.
Micro-loan is a sustainable solution for women affected by poverty, like Grace. A small loan helps a hardworking entrepreneur create or expand a business, and as her endeavor succeeds, she is able to repay the loan, which is then recycle to help someone else who share similar circumstances.
Meanwhile, she is able to establish financial independence and the means to care for her family, which gives her children the opportunity for a future of hope. Just one business loan can have limitless benefits — for a mother, a family, and a community.
In honor of International Women’s Day, fund a loan for a hardworking female entrepreneur. Your gift has the potential to create unlimited benefits for a family and community as it recycles in impact to help more and more people escape poverty.
