“I am HIV positive. I have two children, one of them is HIV positive. I live with my parents after my husband died. My in-laws kicked me out. I have myself, my children and old parents to take care of. I can not give up.” said Rina (name changed).
On March 8 Calcutta Rescue observed Women’s Day in the Tala Park clinic. Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic this year the event was observed with maintaining strict Covid protocol.
2020 has been a horrid year for the economy. For women force in work, it has turned even worse. According to this article in the Times of India, women were seven times more likely to lose jobs during the national lockdown. Also, women are 11 times more likely to not return to work.
Calcutta Rescue women beneficiaries are often domestic help, vegetable and flower sellers and daily wage labourers. All of them suffered gravely during that time. On International Women’s Day today, Calcutta Rescue organised an event for such women. Some are widow, some are deserted by their husbands, some have gone to work of their domestic help, some are still in search of work but all of them believe in one thing, they do not give up.
Just like Rina, a lot of women shared their stories of struggles and making their own ways in the world. The event turned tearful and hopeful to see these women hustling through their lives with smiles. Calcutta Rescue shares heartfelt gratitude to Gainwell CAT for sponsoring the event.
