More detailed information on this missionary can be found in CUMC's library. Bangladesh is home to almost 120 million people and is one of the world's poorest nations, suffering from over-population and sustaining periodic natural disasters, such as floods and cyclones. These natural disasters strike the country's economy as it is an agriculturally-based economy. Many industries are home-based. Child and slave labor abound, making life very difficult and short.
Medical care is limited at best.
Politically, Bangladesh is unstable. The primary religion is Muslim, with a tentative freedom and tolerance for Christianity. This is the world in which Faith Willard and The Widow's Friend ministers. Over 135 women are assisted in becoming self-sufficient which enables them to keep and support their children at the Widow Center. The mothers and their children receive food, clothing and medical necessities for their work of noshi khanta, a detailed embroidery craft found only in Bangladesh.