CARE: Overcoming violence and poverty in Colombia

  • May. 05, 2024

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Born into poverty in Ocaña, Colombia, Ilda Rosa Ortega Ortiz and her husband built a successful life together. Unfortunately, a series of devastating events changed their trajectory. Her husband was disabled in an accident, their daughter fell ill, and they were forced to flee their home due to escalating violence in the region.

New Beginning

Their lives took a turn for the better thanks to the support of Stop Hunger and CARE. For the second consecutive year, a €50,000 grant has been allocated to this region in Colombia to fund a long-term project.In collaboration with CARE, the Women Lead in Emergency (WLIE) Program has helped empower Ilda and over 400 other women. These women, who share similar experiences of hardship, have established 20 kitchen gardens in the past 18 months. These gardens provide a sustainable source of food and income, as well as opportunities to raise chickens. The workshops are also an opportunity to emphasize healthy eating habits. Additionally, the Village Savings and Loan Activity (VSLA) groups promote financial literacy and foster community-driven resilience. Ilda expresses gratitude for the support, stating that it has not only enabled her to feed her family and gain independence but has also "given her back control over her life".

This project allows me to connect with resilient women, boosting my self esteem, my skills, recognizing how valuable I am as a woman and growing alongside other women.

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Ilda Rosa Ortega OrtizStop Hunger et CARE Colombie Bénéficiaire

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