Case Study of Ameer Bee (Granny)

I am 85 years physically challenged old widow, I have one daughter and two sons who are married and left me alone. In 1988 when I was 65 years I had no one to look after or feed me. At that time WOMEN community organizers were conducting hose hold survey about the deserted old women. I was identified by them for giving emotional as well as emotional support. Since 18 years my needs, wants, especially emotional support are being given to make me a happy individual. Weekly medical check-ups, monthly pension is given. Picnics, religious functions are celebrated for people like me. October 1st is celebrated as international day for elderly. Though I am alone I am feeling very much happy that WOMEN is with me as a caretaker. I went to see this grow to help many more like me.

Success Story

Name: Mrs.Shaheeda
Age: 35 Years
Area: Kulsumpura

In the year 2000, I happened to attend the W.O.M.E.N ‘S meetings twice a week arranged in kulsumpura. In the same year, my husband incurred loss in the kirana shop and was mentally depressed. I did not have any means of livelihood except my skill to do zari work, to manage the family and children, as the whole burden of the family was on me. I have four daughters and two sons. The first two daughters were studying in 5th class and 6th classes.

Within 2 meetings of W.O.M.E.N., I was able to imbibe a mindset that I should do something to feed and educate my children. I know Zari work and doing the same in a small scale at my home but not able to get major orders or money to pursue further being a shy type. Understanding my situation and skill, W.O.M.E.N sanctioned Rs.5,000 in 2001 to improve the income. With this help I made a beginning to establish myself in the tailoring and embroidery business. I purchased 4 wooden frames, 1 sewing machine and 1 embroidery zig zag machine engage a few more needy women to help me in my business.

In 2002, I started SHG with 15 members viz. Mahila Worker Group. After six months, WOMEN introduced me A.P. Minority Finance Corporation and got Rs. 25,000/- as loan for my group. I initiated 4 more SHG’s in Kulsumpura and guiding them to run the groups successfully and getting self employment to them. Within a span of 4 years I could educate all my children and 2 of my daughters are in M/S Sujatha Junior College with three scholarships. I could manage to undertake job work through market tie-ups with M/S. Chermas, Dear Well Factory, Begum Bazar, Hyderabad to do embroidery, bead and zari work etc. I am engaging 4 full-time workers. Also, providing part time employment to other skilled women at their homes to complete my orders on time

I got the encouragement from W.O.M.E.N. to take initiative to open free tailoring centre in Kulsumpura with 12 sewing machines sponsored by Ms. Khan Lateef Khan in 2006. The centre is working in two shifts with a full time teacher. I owe this to WOMEN’ s whole  hearted support, which enabled me to take up the task with confidence.