Women deserve equal opportunities to achieve economic independence and live with dignity. When women are economically empowered, the benefits extend far beyond the individual—they strengthen families, uplift communities, and improve the well-being of vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, the sick, and orphans.
In countries including Haiti, Kenya, Peru, South Sudan, and Zambia, women continue to face disproportionate levels of poverty and limited access to education and financial resources. Deep-rooted gender inequality, along with religious, ethnic, and other discriminatory practices, often prevents women from breaking free from cycles of poverty.
Hands of Mercy (HoM) is committed to changing this reality by placing women at the center of economic development efforts. Through community-driven approaches, HoM supports women to build sustainable livelihoods, strengthen their financial skills, and gain greater control over household income.
“By increasing the share of household income controlled by women, either through their own earnings or cash transfers, spending is changed in ways that benefit children.”
— The World Bank
Through our financial empowerment initiatives, HoM is helping women transform their aspirations into lasting economic opportunities.
VSLAs are among the most established and effective community-based financial models in the world. Millions of people—particularly in Africa—participate in savings groups that provide access to basic financial services where formal banking systems are absent.
HoM’s VSLA model empowers women to save using their own resources and to access small loans from pooled group savings. Members collectively establish rules, build trust, and support one another through cycles of saving and lending. These groups promote financial discipline, mutual accountability, and long-term economic resilience.
At HoM, we recognize that no two communities are the same. Each community is assessed individually to identify viable economic opportunities based on local conditions, skills, and market access. Depending on context, women may engage in activities such as:
These activities not only generate income but also improve food security and household stability.
Address: 228 W. Lexington St. Baltimore, Maryland 21201-3413
Phone: 877-435-7277
Email: Info@crs.org
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