Following the widespread devastation caused by the 2004 Tsunami, entire communities were relocated from their traditional coastal homes to inland villages under a UN-HABITAT initiative. These communities, traditionally coastal people, struggled to adapt to their new environment and establish new livelihoods. Many women and girls were left with the sole responsibility of providing for their families and lacked the knowledge and skills needed to earn an income. In response, Shilpa expanded its vocational training programme, based in Colombo, to cover these areas, so that people affected by the Tsunami could develop alternative ways of earning a living.
In consultation with UN-HABITAT and the local population, Shilpa identified communities in Kalutara (40km south of Colombo) and Hambantota (southern coast of Sri Lanka), which were in need of support. The project provides six-month training courses in English language, cookery and tailoring to men and women from these communities, enabling them to gain financial independence and provide for their children’s basic needs.
The project also offers micro-loans (Rs 5-10,000) to women in these communities, enabling them to set up their own businesses, such as growing mushrooms, poultry farming, brick-making and tailoring. Many of these activities are home-based allowing the women to remain at home to care for their children. A number of women have also joined micro-finance groups, each with their own bank account. Here, they are able to meet with their peers, and also social workers from Shilpa, to share information and discuss any issues they may be facing. All loan recipients are trained to ensure they have a clear understanding of the loan process and how to establish and run successful businesses. They also receive regular visits from Shilpa’s social workers to monitor repayments and provide advice and support when required.
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