Where We Work
Indonesia
Indonesia’s vulnerability to natural disasters and the impacts of climate change pose a constant risk to its inhabitants. Millions remain below the poverty line, regional income disparities are high and exploitation of natural resources is intensifying.
Tarsini is an inspiration, empowering other women to rebuild their lives. Credit: Laz Harfa
The impact of your support in Indonesia
Tarsini now leads a lending and savings group in her community, enabling other women to have financial independence. Credit: Laz Harfa
Indonesia
Population: 273.8 million people
Improved health for vulnerable groups such as women, children and people living with disabilities.
Farmers have a reliable and sufficient income to meet their family’s needs.
Increasing public awareness about hygiene and sanitation.
Women and persons with disabilities have sufficient business income for education and health needs.
Tarsini smiling. Photo:
Tarsini’s story
Tarsini is a rice farmer who was struggling to make a living in a rural village in Indonesia. With her husband in irregular work and a weak local economy, the couple’s financial future was uncertain and they were forced to take out loans to cover their daily living expenses. This made them vulnerable to high interest and debt - and they experienced periods of extreme poverty.
Tarsini joined a savings and loans group, facilitated by Caritas Australia and its local partner, Laz Harfa. Here, she participated in financial literacy, accounting and entrepreneurial skills training - invaluable skills in gaining financial stability and independence.
The impact on Tarsini and her family has been profound. Today, Tarsini is debt-free. She runs her own thriving business and is also teaching financial management to other women in her community.
“Through the microfinance group we can increase our sense of dignity, improve our wellbeing and people can live in better ways. My past had been painful, therefore I am determined to be useful for others so that no one will experience what I faced.”
Tarsini's Story
You can help
Donate today
Your donation today can help support long-term programs, like the Laz Harfa Economic & Health Development Project.
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