Like many women in Nepal, she faced an uncertain future without the skills or resources needed for financial independence and stability.
But her story didn’t end here—through SOS Children’s Villages economic empowerment and skills training, she transformed her life and built a business that honors her late husband’s memory while providing for her family’s future.
Facing an uncertain future alone
In Nepal, where Leela lives, traditional gender roles are deeply engrained. These traditional beliefs often limit young girls’ access to education—requiring them to stay home and complete household chores while their male counterparts attend school.
The impact of this inequality extends into adulthood. Without a quality education, many women have little choice but to marry and remain financially dependent on their husbands.
For Leela, this reality became a crisis when her husband passed away. Without professional skills or business training, she struggled to earn a sustainable income for her children. Her family was at risk of poverty, hunger and the heartbreaking possibility of family separation.
Learn more about the importance of preventing family separation.
“I felt completely lost,” Leela said. “Then SOS Children’s Villages stepped in, [and] their guidance gave me hope.”
The support that changed everything
With SOS’ family strengthening program, Leela received the vocational skills, small business loan, mentorship and financial literacy training she needed to pursue her professional dreams and provide for her children.
As a way to honor her late husband, who dreamed of opening and managing his own veterinary shop, Leela enrolled in an 18-month veterinary course.
When she graduated, Leela fulfilled her and her late husband’s dream, opening a small veterinary shop in her community! Now, she’s expanded her business and travels to nearby villages treating animals—from beloved pets to livestock that families depend on for income.
“Life still brings challenges, but I am proud of how far we’ve come,” Leela said. “My bond with my children is strong. We share laughter, meals and simple moments. They remember their father with love, and I want to keep his memory alive for them."
How you can give hope to another mother
This holiday season, your generosity can transform another family’s story.
With your tax-deductible economic empowerment gift from the Gift Shop, you can give another mother the resources, training and support she needs to provide for her children, invest in her community and create a brighter future.
Your generosity spans generations—equipping a mother with the skills and resources she needs to keep her family together, send her children to school and build lasting financial security.
This season of giving, you can send the most impactful gift of all: Love, Delivered.
Because love matters.
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