Overview of Humanitarian Intervention and Economic Empowerment
Context and Challenges
Families supporting members with disabilities in the Ma’in District of Sana’a are facing deteriorating living conditions due to the ongoing conflict. This crisis has led to the suspension of public salaries, a sharp rise in the cost of living, and widespread unemployment as most private and public facilities have ceased operations. Consequently, breadwinners have become unable to meet the basic needs of their families, especially children with disabilities who require specialized and costly care.
The Shift in Responsibility and Urgent Needs
In response to these hardships, women within these households have stepped up to shoulder the responsibility for their families. Field visits and direct assessments of their living conditions have revealed a critical need for vocational skills that can generate a steady income. Despite their high motivation, these women are unable to enroll in technical or vocational training centers due to prohibitive costs, compounded by a significant gap in the services provided by organizations focused on livelihood improvement and economic empowerment.
Needs Assessment Results
Based on the needs assessment conducted by the Foundation, there is a strong desire among these women to join professional training programs. The identified priorities are concentrated in the following sectors:
Sewing and Embroidery.
Incense and Perfume Making.
Confectionery and Pastry Production.
Intervention Plan and Sustainability
Through the “Take My Hand” Center for Training and Rehabilitation, the Foundation is implementing a comprehensive empowerment strategy:
Supporting Graduates: Women who have previously completed training in sewing or perfume making will be provided with “productive assets,” including tools, machinery, and raw materials, to launch their small businesses immediately.
New Vocational Training: A new cohort of women will be enrolled in an intensive program for confectionery and pastry making. Upon completion, they will receive the necessary equipment and materials to start their own enterprises.
Ensuring Sustainability: To guarantee long-term success, the intervention goes beyond technical training. Participants will be trained in Business Management, Feasibility Studies, and Marketing Strategies to ensure their products can compete in the local market and provide a sustainable source of income.