In the coastal district of Kannur, Kerala, a quiet initiative is changing lives.
The project provides unconditional cash assistance to people living in extreme poverty, helping them cover urgent needs such as food, health expenses, and hygiene—or invest in small livelihoods that can sustain them long term.
This effort builds on similar support given during the COVID-19 crisis in 2022 and 2023. A new round of assistance is now underway to help families still struggling with the pandemic’s economic aftermath and the continuing financial crisis.
Reaching those most in need
Among the 417 people who have already received help,
- 354 are persons with disabilities
- 43 are transgender individuals
Both groups have been especially affected by COVID-19 and the state’s economic slowdown. Working with local partners—FLY, Healthline, and Rotary clubs—the project ensured that 100% of the disability and transgender network members in the area were identified and supported.
Umbrellas of opportunity
Many recipients use the cash to keep small businesses alive. In Kerala, umbrella making is a thriving home-based trade during the monsoon. Many umbrella makers are people with spinal cord injuries, polio, or other disabilities, crafting each piece while seated in wheelchairs. The cash assistance lets them buy raw materials and meet the heavy seasonal demand—turning a modest craft into a sustainable livelihood.
Suresh’s story
Take Suresh, a 50-year-old father from Kannur. For the past four years he has made umbrellas using materials purchased with the help of cash assistance he received.
“Support from the project has been a huge change-maker for me because I can take care of my expenses. Usually, this time every year, I get many orders for umbrellas,” says Suresh.
With your gifts, actions and prayers, we can reach more people with the humanitarian aid they need. Donate today.
Building confidence and dignity
This initiative proves that cash assistance can be more than temporary relief. It is a tool for dignity, independence, and hope. By empowering people to decide how best to use the funds, the project helps them become active, self-confident members of society—showing how inclusive support can truly transform lives.
