Savita* never imagined her life would take such a difficult turn. With three children to raise and no family to support her, she suddenly found herself alone when her husband was imprisoned under serious charges. The loss of the family’s only income pushed her into a deep crisis. Her children were forced to drop out of school, and basic needs like food and shelter became a daily struggle. She was physically weak, suffering from anaemia and a skin condition, and constantly worried about how she would survive and provide for her children.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sahaara staff were conducting a prison survey, and it was during this time that her husband provided the family’s contact details, desperate for someone to help. That act opened the door to a new beginning. When Sahaara staff first met Savita, they were struck by her hopelessness but also saw her determination to change her situation. They decided to support her by enrolling her in a tailoring course. Although she had only studied till the fourth grade, Savita was eager to learn and worked hard to complete her training.
Once she completed the course, Sahaara provided her with a sewing machine so she could begin earning an income from home. Slowly, she started receiving small tailoring orders. With growing confidence, she began conducting tailoring classes for women in her neighbourhood. Today, she trains five women at her home, sharing the skills she learned and helping them find a way to earn too.
Sahaara also stepped in to support her children. The team ensured that all three children resumed their education by paying school fees and providing school uniforms. They also offered food support during the most difficult months. With her children back in school and regular income from her stitching work, Savita began to feel hopeful again.
“I am deeply grateful to Sahaara for providing me with a tailoring course and a sewing machine,” Savita says. “These have empowered me to stand on my own feet, support my children, and meet their needs.”
Today, Savita is physically stronger and emotionally more confident. She makes her own decisions, manages her time wisely, and is now thinking about the future. Her daughter dreams of becoming a nurse, while her son wants to pursue commerce studies. Savita continues to teach and wants to expand her tailoring business so that she can train more women and increase her income.
“I want to see my children in good positions and grow the tailoring classes I started with Sahaara’s help,” she says with pride.
(Names changed to protect identities.)