In the serene village of Uttar Pandergaon, nestled within the Dowarabazar Upazila of Sunamganj, lives 55-year-old Kamlain Bibi. As the sole breadwinner for her family—which includes her husband, two sons, and two daughters—Kamlain’s life has been a testament to resilience and determination. Tragedy struck with the loss of her elder daughter in 2024, adding emotional strain to their already challenging circumstances.
Kamlain’s daily earnings as a labourer barely suffice to meet the family’s basic needs. Their modest home lacks essential sanitation facilities, a situation that became particularly distressing when her younger daughter, now married into a well-off family in Jawabazar Union, hesitated to visit due to the absence of a proper bathroom and latrine. The devastating floods of 2022 further exacerbated their hardships, highlighting the urgent need for improved living conditions.
A beacon of hope emerged in October 2023 when representatives from the Emergency Response Alliance (ERA) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) visited their village. Recognizing the dire need for sanitation, these organizations identified underprivileged households, including Kamlain’s, for support. An ERA representative informed her about the assistance available for constructing an affordable latrine. With a grant of BDT 16,000, Kamlain was able to build a hygienic latrine, transforming her home’s sanitation standards.
The impact was immediate and profound. When her daughter and daughter-in-law visited after the installation, they expressed immense satisfaction and gratitude towards ERA and NRC. Kamlain herself conveyed heartfelt thanks, emphasizing that the support not only alleviated her family’s struggles but also preserved their dignity. She acknowledged that ERA and NRC’s assistance has left an indelible mark on her family’s life.
Kamlain’s story underscores the transformative power of targeted humanitarian aid. Through the combined efforts of ERA and NRC, a simple yet essential facility brought about significant improvements in health, dignity, and family cohesion. Her journey serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that dedicated support can have on the lives of those in need.
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