Real Life Stories

40 Stories for 40 Years

To celebrate our more than 40 years of service, we are sharing 40 of our beneficiaries’ powerful stories with you — stories of hope, compassion, and determination. We hope these stories inspire you as much as they inspire us.

Upasi Learns How to Increase Farm Yields and Boost Income

Upasi Devi, currently living in the Singhpur village of Uttar Pradesh, wanted to attend school when she was younger. However, due to family circumstances, she was unable to and was married at 12 years old to Akhileshwar Mahto. She worked with Akhileshwar in agriculture, but after they had four children, their financial situation became strained. Read more

Juguntara Becomes Self-Sufficient and Achieves Her Dreams

Juguntara is the eldest of three children in her family living in Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh. Her father left when she was in 10th grade. With the help of her uncles, she was able to complete her intermediate studies, but since it was her responsibility to manage the household expenses, there was no hope for schooling beyond that. Read more