Nonprofit Uses Microfinance Projects to Reduce Poverty in India

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 21, 2011

Eugene, OR, April 21, 2011 – India Partners (www.IndiaPartners.org) is collaborating with the University of Oregon’s Microfinance Club to develop new microfinance projects and continue empowering the poor in India.

“Microfinance projects provide sustainable and responsible ways to empower neglected communities,” said Brent Hample, President of India Partners. “With self-help projects, the poor individual’s dignity is restored, and the donor’s funds actually inspire, rather than impede the recipient’s livelihood.”

India Partners has been encouraging self-sufficiency among the marginalized in India since 1984 through various projects, including:

The Krupa Fishery: Inaugurated in 1996, the Krupa Fishery began as an M.B.A. thesis for a graduate student at Eastern University in St. Davids, PA. Fifteen years later, the Krupa Fishery still provides jobs, food and income to a village community and an orphanage, providing for hundreds of people annually.

Goat and Buffalo Programs: Impoverished families can earn a livelihood by selling the milk from donated goats or buffaloes, providing them with sustainable incomes.

Tailoring Schools: Since 1996, India Partners’ sewing schools have trained over 500 women, providing them with a source of income and personal dignity.

IT Training for the Disabled: The disabled, usually treated as “untouchables” in India, receive computer training and job skills to secure a job and earn an income in this digital age.

Self-sustaining Emu Farm: India Partners is in the process of building an emu farm in Andhra Pradesh, India. Proceeds from the birds’ meat, skin, bones and oil will support an orphanage, as well as poor families and widows in remote villages.

To join India Partners’ efforts to empower the poor in India, please visit www.IndiaPartners.org or call toll free 1-877-874-6342.

About India Partners:
India Partners is a conduit to a broad group of indigenous, faith-based grassroots agencies in India focused on alleviating poverty and injustice. India Partners believes in helping the people of India help themselves, regardless of caste, religion, gender or creed. We seek support from others who share our passion to empower change.

Press Contact Only: Brent Hample
Tel: 541.683.0696