White Ribbon Day

In Laos, women are
learning crafts, so they
can secure a future for
themselves and their children.

Every year, 25 November is White Ribbon Day – the UN recognised International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. And every day, the international Caritas network is working around the globe to help women and children lead peaceful and safe lives.

Caritas Australia has a number of programs in place which directly support women’s development and empowerment.  In Laos, one of the poorest nations in Asia, a third of the population live below the poverty line.

Many females in Laos have little or no education and skills, so their opportunities for earning a living are extremely limited. This lack of education for children and females highly increases their vulnerability to all kinds of abuse, including domestic violence, bonded labour and human trafficking –  and many resort to begging. 


These colourful cats are
handmade by the women
in Laos.


Through our local partners in Laos, a group of women are receiving livelihood training (cloth toy and bag making), with their crafts selling at the local markets and internationally.

The education of females is especially important as it allows them to create sustainable livelihoods, so they can secure a future for themselves and their children.

You can help us by purchasing a Global Gift this Christmas. This year there are 9 gift cards to choose from and there are 3 easy steps:

1. Choose a gift card
2. Receive a card and a Christmas ornament to give to your
loved one
3. Change people’s lives around the world.

Find out more at Global Gifts online or call 1800 024 413. Or donate to Caritas Australia – your donations will help us put even more programs in place and empower marginalised women.

Thanks for your support.