A tailoring course and a sewing machine have proved a lifeline for Rehana (not her real name) after she escaped from an abusive marriage.
Rehana, a determined 33-year-old mother with a son, fled to live with her brother after suffering repeated physical abuse from her husband, who was frustrated by not being able to find regular employment, and also her in-laws.
She said: “Finding sanctuary with my brother granted me a semblance of peace. But grappling with the notion of burdening him with myself and my child was a constant struggle. I yearned for a means to contribute meaningfully to our family.”
So she volunteered for Calcutta Rescue’s Restoration of Livelihoods program, a tailoring and embroidery course run by the handicrafts team.
Not only did she successfully complete the course, she demonstrated an outstanding talent for tailoring.
“Rehana stands as one of our program’s brightest stars. Her passion and tenacity are unparalleled. Her eagerness to learn is truly inspiring, fueled in no small part by her love for her child,” remarked Arunava , the manager of Calcutta Rescue Handicrafts.
Her outstanding performance earned her more than just praise, she was given a sewing machine, a symbol of empowerment that would aid her journey to self-sufficiency.
It allowed Rehana the chance to start earning a living – but it wasn’t easy at first as she grappled with the mechanics of generating income. But CR provided her with work to get her going and she is gradually building a sustainable source of income.
With a sense of pride, Rehana said: “I now earn around 3000 rupees each month, a modest sum but far better than nothing at all. My aspirations have grown, and I yearn to increase my efforts and earnings. Calcutta Rescue has been my guiding light, turning my dreams of providing a better life for my son into reality.”
Rehana’s journey, although fraught with challenges, is a testament to her resilience and the transformative power of employment training. Thanks to Calcutta Rescue’s unwavering support, she has defied the odds and can now imagine a future marked by security, stability, and hope.
