Train Women in Haiti
- Projects:
- 120
Fonkoze attacks illiteracy in Haiti through its pioneering educational program that combines basic literacy training with practical education in subjects such as business development, sexual and reproductive health, and effective use of financial services. For just $25, you can help one woman go through a four month module to improve her literacy and practical education.
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The Need
Haiti is said to be the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. Approximately 78% of Haitians are poor (less than US$2 a day), and more than half (54%) live in extreme poverty (less than US$1 a day). In rural areas, poverty and extreme poverty rates are higher and estimated to be 84% and 69% respectively. Morover, 52% - more than half - of the population is illiterate. The majority of those who are illiterate are based in the rural areas. Basic literacy is a cornerstone of democracy, self-esteem, sound business management, and human development. As a result, an important part of Fonkoze's philosophy is that people who are poor need not only microcredit, but other financial and education services in order to make their way out of poverty. Fonkoze addresses illiteracy by providing their pioneering literacy and life-skills educational program that combines basic literacy training with practical education in subjects such as: business skills, sexual and reproductive health, children's rights, and environmental stewardship.
About Fonkoze
Partner since March, 2010
Fonkoze is “Haiti’s Alternative Bank for the Organized Poor.” It is the largest microfinance institution (MFI) in Haiti, serving more than 45,000 women borrowers, most of who live and work in the countryside of Haiti, and more than 190,000 savers. Fonkoze is one of the few institutions reaching isolated rural communities through its 42 branches and dedicated credit, education, remittance, and health staff. With over 95% Haitian staff and a highly-skilled, Haitian-majority management team, Fonkoze is building the foundations for democracy and sustainable development in the country.
Following the devastating earthquake on January 12 2010, Fonkoze is providing some of the most needed services in Haiti, including remittance services and deposit accounts. With major international and Haitian partners, Fonkoze is developing new ideas to help Haitians recover and rebuild their lives.