A Story of Hope and Empowerment for Disabled Women in Chuadanga
Chuadanga district is located approximately 250 kilometers west of Dhaka. Due to its border location, the poverty rate in this district is among the highest. Along with poverty, disability has become another major hardship for the people of this region. Disabled individuals are often considered a burden by both their families and society. Many perceive them as a curse to their families and communities, leading to a lack of acceptance and support.
According to a survey by the Department of Social Services, there are around 32,279 disabled individuals in this district. Among them, 4,069 helpless disabled people in 
Sadar and Alamdanga upazilas are receiving support from Prattasha Samazik Unnayan Sangstha (PSUS), funded by UKAid and in partnership with Manusher Jonno Foundation.
Meanwhile, the world has been grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, which has created a sense of fear and uncertainty for humanity. As the outbreak intensified in Bangladesh, the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh imposed a nationwide 
lockdown to ensure public safety. However, alongside the general population, disabled individuals faced extreme hardship during this period. Their means of livelihood became even more challenging.
To alleviate their suffering, 24 trained disabled women were provided with BDT 7,000 each to purchase sewing machines. With this financial support, they were able to buy sewing machines and some fabrics. As a result, women from the villages began approaching them to get clothes tailored. Now, they earn BDT 200 to 300 daily, enabling them to purchase food, including rice, lentils, and vegetables, and ensure proper meals for their families.
The women expressed their gratitude, saying, “We no longer have to starve.” Some are also using their income to pay for their children’s tuition fees, buy books, and school supplies. Others have even
opened bank accounts and started savings plans (DPS/insurance) for future security.
A field visit confirmed that these disabled women have significantly improved their family’s financial stability 
through sewing. Their success story is a testament to the power of support and empowerment, proving that given the right opportunities, even the most vulnerable can build a sustainable future.
