Supporting livelihoods and repairing homes for impoverished women are among the key activities actively implemented by the Women’s Union at various levels. These initiatives aim to assist women in particularly difficult circumstances to escape poverty and stabilise their economic lives.

Disadvantaged women in Hoa Vang District received livelihood support in November 2024. Photo: Nhat Ha

Improving lives for disadvantaged women

In a newly renovated home, Nguyen Thi Thu’s family, living in residential area No. 18, Hoa Tho Tay Ward, Cam Le District, expressed joy at no longer worrying about storms. Thu’s family, facing financial hardships with her husband suffering from a critical illness, lacked the means to repair their house. The Women’s Union of Cam Le District, along with ward-level unions, mobilised donors and collaborated with the Weapon Repair Workshop 38 of Military Region 5’s Logistics Department. They provided labour to repair the roof, beams, and walls, and installed electrical systems. After completion, the house was handed over to her family.

In addition to housing repairs, the Hoa Tho Tay Ward Women’s Union recently donated a glass cabinet worth VND 5 million to Truong Thi Da Thuy, living in residential area No.28, a near-poor household member. Thuy, engaged in small-scale trading, shared: “The support helps us improve our income and family economy.” The Women’s Union of Cam Le District has also repaired five houses and provided 24 livelihood tools, including sewing machines and motorbikes, to assist women in need.

The citywide women’s movement focuses on diverse approaches to economic development and poverty alleviation. For instance, Truong Thi Thuong, a resident of Yen Ne 2, Hoa Tien Commune, Hoa Vang District, was among 12 disadvantaged women gifted 100 chickens worth VND 5 million by the Hoa Vang District Women’s Union. This initiative aimed to help her develop a sustainable livelihood.

In 2024, the Women’s Union of Hoa Vang District supported over 5,000 members through livelihood tools, home repairs worth VND 250 million, and fundraising for nine housing projects totalling VND 325 million. Chairwoman Tran Thi Kim stated that these efforts aim to empower women economically and enable them to achieve stable lives.

Innovative models for sustainable development

Beyond financial support, local Women’s Union branches have introduced innovative programmes such as 155 revolving credit groups involving 2,642 members, and managing loans worth VND 7.7 billion. Initiatives like waste sorting to fundraise and community aid funds further support disadvantaged women.

In 2024, the Women’s Union expanded social welfare programmes, including constructing 15 new homes, repairing 63, and offering 168 livelihood tools. Additional support encompassed 365 health insurance cards, 1,000 traditional dresses, scholarships, and free health check-ups for thousands of women and children.

According to Ms Hoang Thi Thuy, Head of Family-Social-Economic Affairs, the Women’s Union also established models such as free tailoring services, zero-cost classes, and charitable shops. By integrating technology and expanding welfare projects, the Union aims to reach more women and children, fostering resilience and sustainable development.

Reported by NHAT HA - Translating by TRUC VY