Whether it be conflict zones, displacement camps, or impoverished communities, a constant remains: When living conditions worsen for entire communities, they worsen at even higher rates for women. In destitute circumstances, many women are left widowed, making them the sole providers for their children and families. Their hardships are made even more severe given a limited female presence in the labor market coupled with limited education and work experience.
Islamic Relief USA dedicates a tremendous amount of resources towards projects focused on the education, health, safety, and livelihood of women and girls around the world. The Women Can Project in particular strengthens women’s skills so they are better able to develop small businesses based on their interests and assets. The goal is to generate income and combat poverty. Building on the success of Women Can I, implemented last year, we will expand the program to new communities. Women Can II is tailored to the new COVID-19 environment. With our partner Anera, we will ensure the safety of the women entrepreneurs at all stages by conducting awareness sessions on COVID-19 and practicing all precautions to avoid spread. The phased business management training will offer online sessions through social platforms with the possibility of some in-person classes, if public health circumstances change.
Furthermore, Women Can II will focus on sustainable businesses that are less likely to be affected by the lockdown, such as agriculture, shops and animal husbandry. Another facet of the training will center on social empowerment by providing psychosocial support to women who have suffered traumas due to the death of husbands or divorces. “Our goal is both to improve women’s income and their families’ well-being, and to empower them to overcome social barriers and become independent,”
The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics reports that 87 percent of women-headed families are not “economically active” and identify them as one of the most vulnerable groups, as they are exposed to economic deprivation and social marginalization.