‘Vastrasamman’ is a network working on the concept of ‘Clothes for work’. Instead of giving free the clothes and other such non-food items the approach works on sharing usable clothes in lieu of labor for repair and construction of community assets. This approach allows the participants in ‘dignity of labor’ and not recipients of free alms. Adhikar has been a constant companion with the organizing agency “Goonj” since last 8 years.

Thuamul Rampur is one of the most backward Blocks of Odisha. Recently it came to light when one of the poor villagers Dana Majhi, walked more than 12 kms with the dead body of her wife as he could not afford to pay for the ambulance fee. People responded eagerly to our interactions & positively committed to participate in Clothes For Work activities. 280 families participated in the CfW activities and received family kits containing dresses for men  women& children, blankets, carpets, utensils, shoes, toys etc. The community assets created were renovation of canals, approach roads, cleaning of ponds. These assets are helping the local economy to grow

Similarly, we have started CfW activities at Nagada, Jajpur; one of the most poverty stricken area where 250 households will receive clothes and other accessories.