In the village of Kekdabod, amidst adversity, Sonkali Ankulal Sarvekar’s story stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of community-driven initiatives like the Sabal Project. Hailing from a poor background, Sonkali and her family faced profound challenges, especially with two visually impaired sons, rendering her husband’s job prospects limited and confining them to their hamlet.

The Sabal project recognized Sonkali’s potential and dire need for sustainable livelihood support. With a seed capital of Rs. 7,000 from the project, bolstered by her contribution, Sonkali invested in cutlery items, initiating a small business within their village. Her entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication gradually amplified their income.

Within two years, fuelled by their perseverance, they secured a loan of Rs. 40,000 for a second-hand motorcycle, enabling them to expand their market presence by setting up stalls at neighbouring village fairs. This strategic leap forward significantly augmented their earnings, allowing Sonkali to start saving Rs. 5,000 to 6,000 monthly.

The transformation in their lives was tangible. From a grass-thatched roof, their home now boasts a protective tin roof, shielding them from the elements. Not only did their living conditions improve, but Sonkali also channelled resources towards her children’s education at the Divyang (Blind) School in Chikhaldara, providing them with a brighter future.

Moreover, the community rallied behind Sonkali’s family. The village Panchayat erected a public toilet exclusively accessible to Sonkali’s family, demonstrating solidarity towards her children’s well-being. Witnessing this remarkable change, the villagers extended their support, contributing to the family’s economic stability and fostering a sense of belonging.

The impact of Sonkali’s transformation extends beyond her household. The Sabal Project’s intervention not only uplifted her family’s economic condition but also brought joy and optimism to marginalized families in the village. Their success is a beacon of hope, illustrating how initiatives like the Sabal Project, in collaboration with organizations like Dayasagar Social Centre, can catalyze profound positive change in the lives of those in need.

In the words of Sonkali Ankulal Sarvekar herself, “The Sabal Project has been our guiding light, illuminating a path towards a better life. Our gratitude knows no bounds towards the transformative opportunities it has bestowed upon us. We are indebted to the support of our community and organizations like Dayasagar Social Centre, which have helped us realize dreams we once thought were unattainable.”

This success story stands as a testament to the impactful change that can be achieved through collaborative efforts, enabling families like Sonkali to rewrite their destinies and embrace a future filled with hope, dignity, and promise.