Today, Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) commemorates International Women’s Day 2007. As part of ERD’s work implementing the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), its programs worldwide equip and empower women and transform communities. Through 29 programs in 20 countries such as the Philippines, Angola and El Salvador, ERD is addressing the needs of women.

“Episcopal Relief and Development moves beyond recognizing women as recipients of development services and believes that promoting women empowerment by providing women with resources to make concrete choices to alter their personal well-being and that of their families, communities and countries,” said Katherine Krall, ERD Research and Evaluation Officer.

ERD’s partnerships promote cooperative gender relationships by opening up conversations between men and women. These dialogues fight stereotypes and cultural beliefs that prevent women from becoming active members of society. Instead, women are recognized as vital agents in the development process.

Working in partnering with the Church of South India, ERD supports self-help groups that train women to become entrepreneurs. Women produce and sell marketable products such as candles and food items. The participants’ self-esteem grows substantially because the women form working relationships with one another. Economic empowerment fosters pride in their ability to contribute towards the education and well-being of their children.

Roni is a member of a self-help group in a town near Colachel in South India. She makes candles and stated, “Until I joined the group, I had little hope. Now I am glad that I can help support my family and my sons can go to school.”

To make a contribution to Episcopal Relief and Development, please visit http://www.er-d.org/ or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.