A Success Story from IDF’s WCAD Program (The Role of Sanitation Loans): Maria Khatun, Arani Branch, IDF.

Since its inception, Integrated Development Foundation (IDF) has been steadfast in its commitment to uplifting the living standards of impoverished communities. Over the years, IDF’s dedication has encompassed a multifaceted approach, recognizing that economic development alone is not sufficient for holistic community progress. IDF has placed equal emphasis on ensuring the health and well-being of its members, understanding that sustainable development is deeply intertwined with a healthy population.

To this end, IDF has implemented a series of initiatives aimed at raising health awareness among its members. These efforts include regular discussions on health-related issues during center meetings, where field officers educate members on topics ranging from nutrition to hygiene practices. One notable initiative under IDF’s health-focused agenda is the WCAD project which aims to improve access to clean water and enhance sanitation facilities through the provision of loans on favorable terms. The following is a case study of Maria Khatun, a borrower who utilized a sanitation loan provided by IDF.

Mst. Maria Khatun, holding loan number 06462, is a member of Center 82/M under the Arani Branch in the Rajshahi zone of IDF. Maria Khatun, along with her husband, Md. Rakibul Islam, is a permanent resident of the Khorebari Center and has been an active, regular member for three consecutive terms. On June 6, 2024, Maria took out a loan of BDT 50,000 from IDF’s Arani Branch under the WCAD project to address a pressing need: sanitation.

Before receiving the loan, Maria and her family relied on a makeshift, unsanitary latrine situated outside their home. The poor condition of the latrine posed significant health risks frequently leading to illness among family members. This lack of a proper sanitation system not only affected their physical health but also their social standing. Visitors often felt discomfort using the facilities and the family faced social stigma due to their inadequate living conditions.

Financial constraints had long prevented Maria from making necessary improvements to her home’s sanitation system. However, during a weekly center meeting, she learned about the WCAD project from an IDF field officer. The discussion at the meeting highlighted the importance of proper sanitation and its health benefits for families and communities as a whole. Inspired by this newfound knowledge and motivated by the field officer’s guidance, Maria expressed her interest in obtaining a sanitation loan. With unanimous support from other group members, she secured the loan and commenced construction to upgrade her home’s sanitation facilities.

Using the loan, Maria was able to build a safe and secure toilet adjacent to her house. This significant improvement has brought about notable positive changes in her family’s life. The new toilet has alleviated the embarrassment they previously faced when hosting guests and her family now enjoys better health, free from the ailments that once plagued them due to poor sanitation. Maria expressed deep gratitude towards IDF for empowering her with the resources and knowledge necessary to make this change.

Maria Khatun shared that prior to this intervention, her family’s limited financial means and lack of awareness prevented them from even considering the possibility of a safe, environmentally friendly toilet. The support she received from IDF not only improved their sanitation but also transformed their daily life by fostering a healthier and more dignified environment.

Reflecting on her journey, Maria voiced her satisfaction with the outcome and extended her best wishes for the continued success of IDF’s Arani Branch. She emphasized the pivotal role that access to proper guidance and financial assistance played in achieving these improvements. Maria’s story exemplifies the transformative impact of IDF’s commitment to enhancing both the economic and health standards of its members, underscoring the organization’s dedication to fostering sustainable community development.