Life has not been easy for Stuti (name changed), who also lives in a small village. Her husband operated a small shop, but the income was barely enough to support their family. With two daughters in school, their financial situation became increasingly uncertain.
As a member of a Hands of Freedom support group, Stuti found mentorship, encouragement, and practical guidance. The Hands of Freedom team supported her in enrolling in rural business training, equipping her with the tools needed to start her own venture. With coaching and encouragement, she chose to launch a bag-making business, building on her natural sewing skills.
On July 30, 2024, tragedy struck when Stuti’s husband passed away, leaving her to care for her family on her own. The loss was devastating, compounding the challenges she already faced. Despite this, Stuti was determined to create a stable future for her daughters.
Just one month earlier, with seed capital from Hands of Freedom, she had purchased a sewing machine—an investment that would soon become essential to her survival. Channeling her strength into her work, she began sewing clothes and producing bags to sell in the local market.
Today, her business provides critical daily income for her family. She remains hopeful that as it grows, she will be able to support her daughters’ education and improve their quality of life. She also hopes to give back to her community as her situation stabilizes.
“The sewing machine became my lifeline, giving me the strength to stand on my own after my husband’s passing”. Stuti
Stuti plans to expand her business by employing 2-3 additional women.
If you’d like to support more women like Stuti, donate to Hands of Freedom here.