Iktimal in Lebanon

Photo: Mercy Corps

In developing countries like Lebanon, children often have to abandon school at an early age. Some children, especially girls, never get the chance for an education at all. Iktimal, a young Lebanese woman, has never been to school and once felt like that missed opportunity limited what she's capable of doing.

Mercy Corps is helping her to realize her potential. Iktimal received a small business loan through the organization's Local Community Development program, and used that money to expand and diversify the small shop she runs in her house.

Now selling such items as fruit juice, sandals and dishes, Iktimal is making more money and is able to send her children, including three daughters, to school.

"I am very satisfied to be offering my children a chance for a better future," she said. "Mercy Corps played a most important role in my life by supporting my initiative to improve the quality of life for my family."

Mercy Corps' Partners in Mercy program helps women like Iktimal. Join today.