In Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, there is a large population of homeless mothers and children who are vulnerable to exploitation and trafficking.  

SIMaid’s Children’s Uplift Program (CUP) is a hub of hope for women and their children on the streets of Dhaka. CUP takes a holistic approach to working with children in high-risk situations and recognises that to help them, they must also walk alongside their mothers. By providing support and vocational training to mothers, women are empowered to find alternative employment and create a more stable home environment for their children.   

SIM Australia cross-cultural worker, Fiona, had the desire to use her background in social work for God’s global mission. Co-founding CUP, Fiona is using her professional skills and passion for sharing God's love to bring freedom and hope to vulnerable women and children. Samiha* is just one woman whose life has been transformed by the faithful service of the team at CUP.  

Samiha shares a story similar to many other women on the streets of Dhaka. Born homeless at the local worship site where street people sleep, from the age of 9 Samiha began engaging in sex work to survive.  

At the age of 20, she remained homeless, giving birth to her son at the same worship site where she was born. As she slept on the concrete next to her newborn, men would approach her with propositions. Samiha was determined to break the cycle of exploitation within her family. She dreamed of a better life for her son but lacked the resources or skills to secure safe employment.  

Determined to not let her child grow up with the shame she experienced and eager to change her family’s life, Samiha confided in a neighbour about her dreams. Everything changed one day when that same neighbour introduced her to CUP.  

Since joining CUP, Samiha has been earning money and her family moved to a room in a nearby slum. Her son is now looked after in CUP’s Day Care while his mum participates in the training program. As well as improving her sewing skills for future work, her character is also growing as she learns from the daily devotions and parenting courses.  

Because of SIM’s commitment to protect the vulnerable and bring freedom to survivors, Samiha and her son’s life have been transformed. Samiha’s dream has become a reality. She is now confident that her son will be able to study and have a better life than hers.  

CUP’s steadfast dedication and continuous presence in the community for over 16 years allowed Samiha to learn about their services. The outreach worker from CUP diligently builds relationships with those connected to street life, providing essential support to at-risk women and their children.  

CUP is just one project in SIM’s broad anti-trafficking response focused on preventing exploitation, protecting vulnerable individuals, and bringing freedom and hope to survivors. 

GIVE: Would you prayerfully consider giving a tax-deductible gift to CUP? A tax-deductible donation of $70 will cover the participation cost of one mother and her children for one month at CUP. You can give by filling out the form on the back page or visiting sim.org.au/cup.  

*Name changed to protect identity