We were like outsiders in our own homes. We were not allowed to touch the food even though we cooked it. But for Anjanabai and other women, who participate in a village women's group in rural Western India, life has changed drastically. With help from LWR, the women's groups tackle such issues as domestic abuse, alcoholism, children's health education and proper sanitation and, in addition, offer fellowship and support. The women began an informal credit system, called bishi, so that women and their families can start small home businesses such as making traditional jewelry, tailoring, bicycle building and repair, and recycling scrap metal.
Whole villages benefit from the women's programs.