Shivia

Shivia is a UK registered charity formed in 2008 to empower the poorest to create livelihoods, boost income and inspire permanent change.  We work in rural areas in West Bengal, one of India's poorest states, helping families work their way out of poverty by starting backyard farming enterprises.  We have developed livelihood services in poultry farming (Poultry Development Services) and agricultural management (Agri-manangment Services).  Our programme provides all the tools and training families need to start and grow their own small enterprise which will provide a source of income for the whole family.  Our impact assessments show that, through the sale of eggs alone, household income can increase by 30%.  Our home farmers have spending choices for the first time - many chose to spend their profits on giving their children access to education, the wish of parents the world over. www.shivia.com