Women and Girls
We believe everyone deserves to live free from violence. Although anyone may experience violence, women and girls are disproportionately affected.
We take a community-led approach to confronting violence against women and girls. We help create safe and inclusive spaces and build opportunities for them to lead full lives.
Locally-led initiatives for lasting impact
Our programs to advance equality for women and girls begin with the people who live and work in the communities we serve. They are the experts, trusted by their neighbors and deeply aware of the challenges they face. We work together to create respectful, impactful and inclusive change.
Immediate care
For survivors of violence, we prioritize care that restores dignity and hope. This ensures they know their rights and how to access critical services. With our partners, we:
- Build safe spaces
- Provide healthcare and counseling
- Make legal aid accessible.
These services help survivors heal and rebuild their lives in a supportive environment.
“I gained knowledge through the program. “Now, I proudly raise my voice to reduce violence in my community while actively supporting survivors.” –Mother Susanna, program participant in Liberia
Long-term independence
We also work for long-lasting change by supporting the creation of locally-led, partner-facilitated savings and loan groups. Participants gain lasting financial skills and small low-interest loans to:
- Build thriving businesses
- Pay for educational expenses
- Manage emergencies.
As Élida, a program participant in Brazil, said, savings and loan groups give people “a new possibility for controlling and improving their situations.” Their financial stability reaches families and anchors entire communities.
Why it works
Our programs succeed because they are rooted in local needs, led by local experts and informed by extensive research and evaluation.
We take the time to understand community needs and values and invest in local leaders. This approach fosters community ownership of the programs and sustained success.
We also invest in on-going analysis of our programs. Rigorous evaluation allows us to measure success and use data to identify opportunities for improvement.
Meet Anvika
In Sri Lanka, Episcopal Relief & Development supported the development of a locally-led women’s microfinance group. This group transformed the life of a woman named Anvika.
After a devastating tsunami and prolonged civil war in the area, Anvika was able to access a small loan to invest in her family’s motor repair business. This opportunity enabled her to expand the business, provide for her children’s education and plan for the future.
Our impact
For Anvika, joining a local women’s microfinance group facilitated by Episcopal Relief & Development marked a turning point in her life. With access to financial literacy and small, low-interest loans, women can build businesses, support their families, and mentor other women.
Our work reaches far and wide:
- Since 2015, over 41,000 women and girls have accessed life-changing resources and support.
- Advocacy training with 300+ community change agents has led to impactful campaigns addressing violence against women and girls.
- Participation in savings groups has resulted in 90% of members reporting improved economic stability.
These numbers represent lives transformed, communities strengthened, and hope restored.
Get involved
Dive into inspiring stories of resilience and transformation of women like Anvika who create lasting change in their communities. Then, explore our interactive map to see where and how we fulfill our commitment to serve women and girls within their communities.
Read stories of impact | Explore the map
Give today
Support our mission to help women and girls empower themselves through data-driven, sustainable programs. Together, we can create a world where they are provided with the opportunities and safe spaces to achieve their fullest potential.
