Bangladesh – Young Power in Social Action

YPSA surveyed 1,250 persons with disabilities and organized them into 50 self-help groups, where they contribute part of their income to a general pool to create a fund from which group members can borrow as needed, such as for supporting their healthcare, education, and housing.

Based on their socio-economic background and personal interest, 250 persons were selected to receive interest-free loans of US$250 each. These persons also received vocational training courses and were given technical support and guidance to establish their own businesses, such as tailoring, cow rearing, poultry and dairy farming, and tea stalls. Some engage in the production of handicraft items made out of bamboo, cane, and other local materials. They meet their customers – mostly from the local community – in a market once a week, were no rent is charged for their sales stands. To date, approximately 100 of the micro-enterprises have proven successful, and some have even taken a second loan to expand their business.