Re-Building the Women’s Movement: Phase 2
Project Overview:
Timeframe:* 15 March - 31 January 2025(10 months)
Grant Amount:* US$ 45,000
Organization:* Afghanistan Handicrafts and Agriculture Development Institute

Key Activities:

Here’s the updated report reflecting that the childcare service was established at the *DHAOA Center

Childcare Service Established for Tailoring Internship Participants 
DHAOA Center - Update Report (12/09/2024)

Overview
As part of its continued efforts to support women's empowerment, *DHAOA* has launched a dedicated childcare service at the *DHAOA Center* for the women enrolled in the tailoring internship program. This initiative allows mothers to focus on developing their professional skills while ensuring their children are cared for in a safe and nurturing environment.

Service Details
Date Established*: 12/09/2024
Location*: DHAOA Center, [City], [Province]
Beneficiaries*: 25 women participating in the tailoring internship program and their children.

Objectives
Support for Working Mothers*: The childcare service enables mothers to fully engage in their training without concerns about the safety and well-being of their children.
Improved Participation*: By providing childcare, DHAOA anticipates an increase in attendance and focus among the women in the program.
Promoting Child Development*: The childcare center offers structured activities aimed at supporting early childhood development in a safe and stimulating environment.

Facilities and Services Provided
Staff: The childcare service is managed by trained caregivers who ensure a high standard of care.
Facilities*: The DHAOA Center includes a well-equipped childcare area with play zones, educational materials, and comfortable spaces for infants and toddlers to rest.
Activities*: The children participate in educational and recreational activities such as art projects, storytelling, and outdoor play, designed to engage and stimulate their minds.

Impact on Internship Participants
The introduction of the childcare service has been met with overwhelming appreciation from the women in the program. Here are a few reflections from participants:
The childcare service has been a game-changer. I can now concentrate on my training, knowing my child is safe and happy."
With this support, I feel more determined and motivated to complete the program and pursue my career in tailoring."

Challenges & Solutions
Challenge*: Initial concerns about space and resources to accommodate both the children and the training program.
Solution*: DHAOA secured additional resources through partnerships, ensuring the childcare center is adequately equipped.
  
Challenge: Coordinating childcare hours with the internship schedule.
Solution: Flexible care hours were introduced to align with the varied training times of participants.

Recommendations*
Service Expansion*: Given the success of this initiative, DHAOA may consider expanding childcare services for future training programs.
Ongoing Staff Training*: Continuous professional development for the childcare staff is recommended to maintain high standards of care and service.

Conclusion*
The establishment of a childcare service at the DHAOA Center for the tailoring internship participants has been a vital addition, significantly easing the burden on working mothers. By providing this support, DHAOA has helped ensure that women in the program can fully focus on their training, empowering them to succeed professionally while also caring for their families

- *Economic Impact:* Women will be trained in restaurant and handicraft skills, leading to increased income and financial independence.
- *Educational Initiatives:* Training on gender equality, child protection, and other educational topics will enhance the knowledge and roles of women in society.
- *Social Impact:* The project will foster social participation and create women-only workspaces in restaurants and markets, addressing cultural needs in the region.
- *Creative and Entrepreneurial Development:* Encouraging women to explore entrepreneurship in a supportive environment.

Anticipated Results:
- Increased income and economic empowerment for 50 women.
- Enhanced social and cultural roles of women through active participation.
- Development of local industries, particularly in handicrafts and culinary arts.
- Creation of direct and indirect employment opportunities for women.

Challenges and Solutions:
Security Issues:* Collaboration with security institutions to ensure project stability.
Gender and Cultural Barriers:* Tailored local trainings and community engagement to overcome restrictions.
Financial Sustainability:* Encouraging local financial support to reduce dependence on external resources.
Cultural Resistance:* Community-led initiatives to ease the transition to new cultural norms.

Progress Tracking:
Skill Development:* Targeting the development of skills for 50 women and girls.
Employment Creation:* Aiming to provide job opportunities for 50 women and girls.
Economic Empowerment:* Strengthening the economic status of 50 families.
Social Participation:* Enhancing the active social and economic participation of women in the community.