The [him] moderator has been unable to get a copy of the paper on which this ICAAP abstract is based.
[him] moderator
******************************
MoOC02-02 Breaking the Mold: Empowerment Through Self-Help Income Generation for PLHA in Myanmar
Erica Tubbs, David John Dobrowolski, Pakprim Oranop na Ayuthaya
Pact Thailand, Thailand
Issues : PLHA in Myanmar are dying from lack of antiretroviral therapy. Only about 20% of people in need of ART are receiving it. There is a critical need for sustainable community care and support for PLHA to face challenges of opportunistic infections, stigma, isolation, and loss of confidence and hope. In pursuit of economic opportunity to maintain their lives, PLHA need an income generation program for survival.
Project : In 2008, Pact adapted its award-winning WORTH program, a savings-led microfinance program that strengthens participants’ ability to better support their financial needs through economic empowerment. PLHA work together in cohesive, self-help groups and learn skills in savings, lending, and
business. The program targets 500 PLHA in Yangon.
Results : Through February 2009, 18 PLHA self-help group banks are established. A database was created to track savings, loans, and group business performance. Group sizes vary between 15-25. Members are 25% males, 75% females, 2% MSM, 5% FSW, 2% IDU and 57% on ART.
Lesson Learned: The WORTH model works best where informal business opportunities exist. Recruitment should carefully target only determined and motivated individuals. Although the lack of support to PLHA in Myanmar puts heavy burden on the groups, they create support and solidarity from each other, through savings, microenterprise, and care.
