On June 9, Nguyen Thuy Linh, chairwoman of the Tran Van Thoi District Women’s Association in Ca Mau Province, southern Vietnam, announced that their campaign has successfully provided 863 gifts and cash donations to adults and children in need.
A Worthwhile Initiative
Nguyen Cam Me, a resident of Tham Troi B Hamlet, shared that before the program, littering and burning trash were common practices. However, things changed for the better as people started bringing their rubbish to the women’s association meetings. During these gatherings, skilled women sort and recycle plastic waste, transforming it into useful items like piggy banks, handbags, and vases. Any non-recyclable waste is sold to raise funds to empower underprivileged women to start their own businesses.
“I appreciate the impact of this model. Even though my financial contribution is modest, this initiative educates women about waste sorting and environmental protection for future generations,” Me added.
Pham Hong Han, head of the Women’s Association Chapter of Tham Troi B Hamlet, highlighted the active participation of association members in this movement. They collect and sell rubbish, and even small contributions from each family add up to a significant amount when combined. They assist members in saving and provide support for business ventures, and this empowering approach has gained widespread support.
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A piggy bank crafted from recycled plastic trash, with proceeds going to assist underprivileged members. Photo: Thanh Huyen / Tuoi Tre |
Escaping Poverty Through Plastic Waste
Pham Ngoc An, also from Tham Troi B Hamlet, shared her heartwarming story of overcoming poverty through this initiative. “My family used to be classified as poor, and we lacked farmland, which created numerous challenges. Thanks to the plastic waste recycling movement, I received a VND5 million ($196) preferential loan. With that, I bought a pig and opened a small grocery store at home. Just two years later, our lives have improved significantly, and we are no longer in poverty,” An joyfully shared.
Lam Hang Ni, a native of Khanh Binh Commune, had a similar experience. With initial support from the sale of plastic waste, she was able to purchase machinery and expand her production of turmeric starch, increasing her annual sales to several hundred kilograms. “Despite limited capital, early assistance can truly make a difference and offer opportunities for growth,” Ni emphasized.
Ni and An are just two of over 800 women who have received financial aid and gifts through this initiative by the Tran Van Thoi District Women’s Association. According to chairwoman Linh, “We ensure transparency in our soft loan supports, and all decisions are approved by every member. This has led to effective fund management. Our goal is not just to provide financial support but also to raise awareness about plastic waste reduction and environmental cleanliness.”
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