107 To support these women a step further, we also have a separate Jugnu fund, which offers micro-financing to women who wish to start their own microbusiness. So far, we have had about 12 women who have utilized this fund to start their businesses. In September 2019, we hosted an exhibition in our Corporate office and Shamirpet unit, showcasing the handmade eco-friendly products by women helped by SAFA programs. Our employees showed support by participating actively and purchasing these products. The proceeds from the sale of products went back into the SAFA production units, thereby benefiting the women working in those units. Jugnu fund beneficiary highlight Sabitha – Micro Business Startup In 2019, Sabitha, a 30 year old woman was seeking support to start a micro business to support her family of five. After interviewing her as a candidate for the Jugnu fund, we were impressed by her commitment and enthusiasm to strive towards financial independence and support her family. We provided her a loan of INR 15,000 to help set up a small Saree business in her community. The business has been running successfully over the last year and generates a stable monthly income. The benefits of this business start up is two fold, in that it also contributes to the local economy. Her success, has inspired many other women like her to strive for financial independence. From May to August 2020, women trainees from SLDC were engaged with orders for making masks from their homes, based on a pay model. Women fulfilled orders for approximately 20,000 masks in response to COVID 19 generating income as well as supporting the need arising from the crisis. COVID-19 support by the SLDC women trainees Supporting Women on the Journey to Financial Independence
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