Community Care for Cultural and Mental Resilience
Shariatpur Development Society (SDS) is a woman-led non-governmental organization established in 1991, dedicated to advancing the socio-economic well-being of marginalized communities in rural Bangladesh. With a strong focus on rights-based and inclusive development, SDS has worked extensively with women, children, indigenous communities, and people with disabilities. The organization emphasizes grassroots engagement to ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable are central to decision-making processes. SDS is particularly active in the Char (riverine island) regions of Shariatpur, where it addresses the severe impacts of climate change on local communities, including river erosion, flooding, and extreme weather events.
Profile
Grant:
2025: US$ 70,000
CJRF Region:
Bay of Bengal
Why Shariatpur Development Society?
With this grant of SDS aims to address the non-economic losses experienced by the vulnerable populations in the Char areas by focusing on mental health support, cultural preservation, and gender-based violence prevention. The organization plans to establish community-based counseling centers, where individuals affected by river erosion can access psychosocial services, with special attention given to women and children. SDS will also organize workshops to revive traditional cultural practices and promote community cohesion. Additionally, SDS will create safe spaces for women and children to access support and conduct awareness campaigns to prevent gender-based violence. These interventions will help rebuild the emotional, psychological, and cultural well-being of the affected communities.
Photo courtesy of Shariatpur Development Society.