In India, nearly 75% of the population lives in villages, and for generations, the country has relied heavily on agriculture. Most women in these rural areas depend financially on the men in their families, usually their fathers or husbands. But when those men face illness, disability, or even death, the women are often left without any means to support themselves or their children.
This reality came into sharp focus when our founder, Ria Garg, attended a food drive in India. There, she witnessed dozens of women lining up to collect food, not for themselves, but for their children and families, because their husbands were too sick or injured to work. These women weren’t lazy or unwilling, they simply had no way to earn an income of their own. That day left a lasting impression. Ria realized that while food drives offer short-term relief, they can’t replace the long-term stability that comes from having your own livelihood.
That moment became the seed for Her Helping Hands. To create real change, we had to give these women more than food, we had to give them opportunity.
Inspired by this, and aligned with the Indian government's push for "Kutir Udyog", or home based businesses that empower women, we launched a free sewing training program for underprivileged, unskilled women from households with no stable income. Over a three month course, participants learn how to sew and are gifted a sewing machine at no cost upon completion. This enables them to start earning from their own homes, giving them control over their finances and their futures.
We then sell the handmade bags these women create, and 100% of the profits go back into funding more training, materials, and sewing machines for future participants. In just three months, we’ve already helped 30 women become self sufficient, and with your support, we can reach hundreds more.
Her Helping Hands isn’t just about sewing. It’s about dignity, independence, and building a stronger future, one woman, one skill, and one stitch at a time.