Blog FeedThe Meaning of a Loan
It’s easy to see why women who participate in Freedom from Hunger’s programs deserve to be called, “Self-help Heroes.” I’ve been privileged to meet hundreds of them on my many visits to the see Freedom from Hunger’s programs in action. I have often wondered how far I could walk in their shoes. Could I work a 12- to 14-hour day…every day of my life? Could I endure the back-breaking labor of getting water, growing food, caring for animals, and running a business on top of caring for my children? Could I live without electricity? Could I find a way to save money? How would I feel if I was married by 18, started having babies right away, and then know that, unless I gave everything, my children wouldn’t make it to age 5. And yet in the face of all this, the women I’ve met are joyful. They’re so grateful that someone trusted them with a loan and that they are learning about nutrition and health. They’re also happy to work together as a group to support and encourage each other. And the pride they have in their success is unforgettable. Ask yourself how you would do living in the same conditions and let me know!
