In the crowded and muddy slums of Yangon, many families face the harsh realities of discrimination and poverty. Without identity documents, securing a job is nearly impossible for some, trapping them in a cycle of hardship.
However, the Urban Poverty Alleviation Project, delivered in partnership with the Myanmar Jesuit Region, is providing relief for over 530 people this year in three crucial ways: building shelter for vulnerable families, offering microcredit loans to help individuals start businesses, and empowering them to become self-sufficient.
Ni Ni : Sewing a Brighter Future
“My name is Ni Ni (31) and I work as a seamstress while my husband is in construction. Together, we support our two children: four-year-old and five-month-old. Our family’s daily livelihood costs include essentials like food and electricity.”
“I dream of expanding my sewing business and selling clothes, but I lack the funds for investment. With a microcredit loan from the Urban Poverty Alleviation Project, I can now buy quality linen and improve the quality of my work. Through your support I aim to expand my business to turn my aspirations into reality and create a better future for my family.”
Than: A Legacy of Noodles
“I am Than (65) selling Shan noodle salad from my home. I support my family, which includes my 71-year-old mother and my 26-year-old daughter, who has just started working in a factory. Our household expenses remain high, with significant costs for electricity, food and other essentials.”
“My noodle business is vital for my family’s support, and I am determined to continue this legacy. With this support I believe my family’s living conditions will improve significantly within the next five months.”
This year 500 people have benefitted from microcredit loans.
A new house to raise a grandchild!
“My name is Ohn I’m 68 years old and my wife is Tin & she is 55 years old. We have a beautiful grandchild. I recycle bottles & I sell to the plastic shop. Living with a disease, means I can only work 3 days a week. Our old house was very damaged and became dangerous to live in. This program has helped built a more stable space for us to live in. thank you!”
This year 14 houses were built for 14 families, benefitting a total of 55 people.
