Stories of Change

Riya had fallen two years behind in reading due to missed classes and lack of support at home. When she joined PFMECT's community learning circle, a trained mentor worked with her three times a week in her own neighborhood. Within eight months her reading level caught up to her grade, and she was selected to read aloud at her school's annual function.

Sunita attended PFMECT's maternal nutrition workshop during her second pregnancy after her first child had suffered from recurrent illness. The 12-week program taught her about food diversity, hygiene, and early childhood care. Her second child has had no major illness in his first two years of life and is meeting all growth milestones.

Arjun joined PFMECT's youth skills program after dropping out of a commerce degree to support his family. The 14-week program taught him digital accounting and inventory management. Six months later, he was hired at a local trading firm and is now saving toward completing his graduation through distance education.

Priya joined a PFMECT women's self-help group after years of economic dependence that had left her vulnerable. Over 18 months, the group collectively saved ₹14,000 and Priya learned basic bookkeeping. She has since started a small tiffin service and mentors two younger women in the group.

Kavita's family had planned to withdraw her from school after Class 8 to help with household work. A PFMECT mentor connected with her mother and facilitated a conversation about Kavita's aspirations. With continued mentorship, Kavita passed her Class 10 board exams and is now enrolled in a government intermediate college.

Mohammed's family had been managing a chronic skin condition in his youngest son with home remedies due to cost barriers. At PFMECT's free health camp he received a proper diagnosis, a referral to a government specialist, and follow-up care. His son's condition has been treated and the family now attends every quarterly health camp in the colony.