A Year of Hope and Transformation: Karuna’s 2024 Annual Review
At Karuna USA, we believe that real change starts from within—within individuals, communities, and through compassionate action. This year, despite the ongoing global challenges, Karuna’s work, comprising the Karuna Trust (UK), Karuna Germany (DE) and Karuna USA, has touched the lives of over 151,000 people across South Asia. From gender equality to climate resilience, education, and sustainable livelihoods, our mission to uplift marginalized communities continues to make a profound impact. Here’s a look back at what we’ve achieved together.
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Annual Review
The Karuna family achieved a combined total income of $3,899,809 for the financial year 2023-24. Thank you to all the individual donors, Trusts and institutions who made this possible.
Supporting Climate Resilience for Vulnerable Communities
In the face of increasing climate-related disasters, Karuna has been at the forefront of preparing communities to withstand and adapt to these challenges. This year, 25,912 individuals were supported through climate resilience programs in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Through sustainable farming techniques, disaster preparedness training, and climate-adapted livelihood strategies, communities are becoming more resilient to the harsh effects of climate change. By empowering local farmers with adaptive farming methods, we’re ensuring that they can continue to thrive despite the changing environment.
One such initiative is the Participatory Climate Adaptation Project by our partner Pragya in India and Bangladesh, which supports cyclone-affected households in adapting their agricultural livelihoods. By forming peer support groups and training villagers, we’ve been able to widen our impact to 52,640 people. These are the seeds of resilience that will bear fruit for generations to come.
Empowering Women and Girls to Break Free from Violence
One of the pillars of Karuna’s work is strengthening protections for women and girls. This year, we’ve supported 31,000 women and girls in enhancing their access to legal protections against violence and trafficking. Through awareness campaigns, legal workshops, and providing safe spaces for survivors, we’re helping to build a world where women can live free from fear.
One powerful story from this year comes from Tejasvi, a woman who escaped an abusive marriage with the support of Karuna’s partner, Urja. Urja provides safe shelter, psychological counselling, and vocational training to women who have survived violence. Tejasvi’s journey from homelessness and trauma to independence and strength is just one example of the life-changing work Karuna supporters make possible.
Keeping Children in School and Out of Harm’s Way
Education is a fundamental human right, and this year, Karuna has helped 28,700 children stay in school, protecting them from the dangers of child labour and early marriage. By providing the resources needed for uninterrupted education, we’re equipping the next generation with the tools they need to build brighter futures.
One of our key initiatives is the Learning Champions Project, which helps girls in rural areas access education through group meetings, school supplies, and even childcare for young mothers who want to return to school. These Dignity Centres provide girls not only with academic support but also a space to build confidence and challenge the gender norms that have held them back for generations.
Securing Livelihoods and Building Economic Stability
Economic stability is crucial for marginalized communities, and Karuna has supported 75,000 migrant workers and daily wage labourers in securing stable livelihoods. By assisting with skill development, financial training, and access to government welfare schemes, we’ve helped thousands of families improve their economic well-being.
One notable project this year was the Migrant Labourer Resilience Project, which provided 57,697 families with access to government welfare benefits. In addition, 250,000 helpline calls were answered, offering vital support to those seeking assistance during challenging times. With this initiative, we’ve strengthened the foundation for economic security in some of the most vulnerable regions.
A Year of Community-Led Change
At Karuna, our approach to change is always community-led. We believe in empowering local leaders, and this year we’ve continued to build on our Grassroots Resilience Initiative in India. Through this initiative, we’ve supported 35 organizations, directly impacting 296,521 people. These local leaders, trained in financial management and leadership, are at the heart of Karuna’s sustainable, self-reliant approach to community development.
As we look back on the year, we’re reminded that none of this would have been possible without the generosity and compassion of our supporters. Your commitment to helping others, even in times of global uncertainty, has moved the needle of positive change.
Looking Ahead
While the global challenges we face—such as climate disasters, economic inequality, and gender-based violence—continue to persist, we remain hopeful. Karuna’s mission is to support those who are most vulnerable, and with your help, we can continue to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and move towards a brighter, more just future for all.
If you’d like to continue being a part of this journey, consider supporting Karuna in any way you can—whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our work through social media. Together, we can make the world a better place for everyone.
Thank you for making this possible.
– The Karuna USA Team