The Kala Women's Center provides women with the resources they need to gain the skills and knowledge to function as effective leaders. The project is multifaceted, including teen workshops on issues surrounding reproductive health, knitting classes combined with Savings Circles for women to save money to start small income-generating activities, and maternal and child health for new and expecting mothers.
The plans for the Kala Women's Center came from a two-month long study of the needs of Kala Women, conducted by a former FORGE volunteer. She found four pervasive issues facing these women.
Firstly, women of the community were harmed by the effects of premature pregnancy and marriage. After conducting research within each section of the camp, FORGE estimated there to be at least 207 girls under the age of 18 who are pregnant, half of whom are not married, and half of whom are not in school. Though the parents of the community recognized the danger of these numbers, it is not culturally appropriate for parents to discuss these issues with their children. The problem is exacerbated by the temptation that many young girls face to sell sex for money, thereby supporting their families.
Another factor working against Kala women was the lack of child health care and education about preventative health measure. These women were anxious to learn how to keep their children healthy, but the resources to do so were not available.
Single women in Kala face unique challenges, such as receiving fewer food rations, facing discrimination from the community, and being targeted as sex workers.
Finally, married women in Kala face spousal abuse, infidelity, abandonment, and jealousy from their husbands. These issues arise partly from their husbands' struggle to retain their masculinity in the disempowering environment of a refugee camp.
Any women in the Kala community are able to participate in one or more of the Kala Women's Center's programs. In turn, their families benefit from the women's education and skills.
