Nepal

Solace began work in Nepal in 2005 thanks to a generous grant from the Dororthy Byrne Family Foundation. Working in partnership with Dr. Mignma Lama, Solace has overseen construction of two schools which are desperately needed in an era when Nepal is undergoing tremendous political and social change.

Over a billion people worldwide live on a dollar a day or less - and women make up a majority of the world's poorest citizens. Women face unique economic barriers in developing countries, such as low wages, poor working conditions, and lack of access to credit. When women are poor, communities and families cannot be strong. Investing in women is a proven path to reducing poverty. Decades of research have shown that when women have access to more resources, they invest in their families' future by spending money on children's education, health care and nutrition. This creates a multiplier effect that strengthens families and communities over time.

In 2011 Solace created the Nepal Cottage Industry Project which includes both a retail center and a workshop.  The shop employs artisans, designers and shopkeepers, many of which are single mothers that have escaped the sex trade and have no other form of income.  Solace Nepal Project Coordinator Michelle Winston works to train and employ these young women in handicraft & textile design, enabling them to make a living wage and care for themselves and their families.