India, Mumbai
I will survive
The Chaiim Foundation's project "I will survive" serves to protect and provide emotional and economic support to women who have survived severe violence, forced prostitution, and human trafficking. Central to this is training in their own sewing workshop, which creates economic independence and self-confidence.
A major supporter of the project was the fair fashion label EYD from Germany – with the aim of creating meaningful work for the women and at the same time promoting awareness of ethical fashion.
The main aim of the project is to provide safety, accommodation, psychological support, and career prospects for women who have survived the most severe violence and abuse. By working in the workshop, the women gain self-determination – through paid and meaningful work that also strengthens their integration into society.
Following the death of an important supporter, EYD ceased operations in 2024 – a change that also directly affected "I will survive". The Chaiim Foundation thus lost an important cooperation partner and, at the same time, the founding couple was struggling with health problems. As a result, the decision was made to move the sewing workshop from the center of Mumbai to a suburb – together with around 20 women from the program. The aim was to reduce costs in the long term and strengthen the organization's resilience.
The AEB-Stiftung supported the Chaiim Foundation with financial resources for the women's wages, equipment for the sewing workshop, and psychosocial support. In addition, production equipment and training measures were financed.
When it became necessary to relocate from Mumbai in order to secure the business in the long term, the foundation provided funding for this. The Chaiim Foundation assured the women concerned that the funds would be used directly if the new start was not successful. Thanks to this support, the project was able to successfully establish itself at the new location and gain stability through local orders.
Natalie Schaller . Project instigator
Chaiim Foundation (India)
Highlights
HighlightsJune 30, 2025When the end is just the beginning – new beginnings with courage
When the fair fashion label EYD had to cease operations at the beginning of 2024, the project "I Will Survive" was on the brink of collapse. But instead of giving up, the Chaiim Foundation, together with the AEB-Stiftung, dared to make a brave new start. How a crisis turned into a new opportunity – and how hope, solidarity, and determination paved the way to a better future.
