THE SEWING MACHINE PROJECT

Many households are devastated by poverty and unemployment in Bangladesh. Women, especially those who are the heads of their households, are often among the poorest of the poor in Bangladesh. Women have few opportunities to earn income and are often discriminated against in the workforce. A small amount of money and proper tools can help these women start a small business and help them survive on a monthly basis. Bangladesh has a large textile industry and stitching garments is one job that is still valued and needed in Bangladesh. By providing women in need with sewing machines and training we can empower them to support themselves.https://www.youtube.com/embed/eF4pNR_UgsQ

We in collaboration with Basmah Foundation have set up sewing machine distribution program for women in need in Bangladesh. Basmah Foundation provides them with sewing machines and the skills needed to get a small business started in their household. We are running three sewing machine training centres at Lalmonirhat, Dinajpur and Teknaf, Bangladesh. We believe this dual pronged approach, providing free sewing machines as well as three months of training will empower them to create a stream of income for themselves and their families. In past one year, more than 100 families have already benefited from this program and many more are enrolled in the program this year as well.

This sewing machine center serves as a dual blessing. It provides a training cum employment opportunity to women in Bangladesh as well as the garments manufactured at these centers are sent to Rohingya refugee camps where they are distributed for free.