The situation was getting bleak for Zeinab Abdel Salam Al-Kadi and her six children. The Egyptian family was struggling to support themselves after Zeinab’s husband stopped work due to his debilitating illness. Then, a lifeline came. It was a tiny $45 loan from a local microfinance organization, but enough for Zeinab to start a business crafting wooden kitchen utensils. She sold her wares at market and today, she owns a bustling workshop and raw materials. Her daughters help run the thriving business.

Zeinab is just one of millions of women who have courageously started journeys out of poverty thanks to microfinance. Microfinance provides small loans, savings and other financial services to the very poor.
Grameen Foundation (GF) supports this proven strategy against poverty by giving financing, technology and other resources to microfinance organizations worldwide that serve the poor, mostly women. GF focuses on women because they are more likely to invest their business profits in their children’s nutrition, health, and education.

To honor women’s courage, Grameen Foundation celebrates March as International Women’s Month, and invites you to celebrate with us.

Join the celebration and make a difference. Post a message to honor a woman who inspires you on StopPovertyNow.org. At the same time, you will be making a difference in the lives of very poor women.

How it works:

• Log on to StopPovertyNow.org and see a woman whose life was changed by microfinance.
• Help us bring that picture to life by choosing squares, then filling in a portion of the picture.
• Add your voice to the picture by sharing your personal message or a picture to honor a woman who inspires you, and tell us why you want to Stop Poverty Now.

Helen Yuen, Grameen Foundation

“Mr. Yunus will be here at FDL to chat live with everyone regarding his new book, Creating a World Without Poverty, from 6 to 8 pm ET (3 to 5 pm PT).”

-Virginia Simmons