In the early hours of the morning in Soledad de la Cruz, many women are busily getting their families, homes and businesses ready for the day ahead. Among these women, is Deglis a dedicated and hardworking wife and mother, who we have been fortunate enough to meet, interview and assist through our community savings groups. Planning for a bright future, Deglis is devoted to her journey forward towards financial independence.
Behind every woman, is a narrative that shapes who they are. Deglis is indeed strong, determined, caring and dedicated, but her story is not without hardship. With her husband and two girls, money has been tight at times, preventing them access to medical care. Economic constraints have meant Deglis has been unable to complete her studies in accounting. She spends her days taking care of her children and her home, while her husband works as an industrial technician in the capital, Managua. He comes home only on weekends.
Deglis began with the community savings group “Hombres y mujeres capaces de alcanzar una meta” (Men and Women Capable of Achieving a Goal), two years ago. This group teaches its members how to save money, while also providing loans managed by the other members of the savings group. Group members are required to make weekly monetary contributions and these funds are then made available to any group member who would like to request a loan.
With the money she has saved while being in the group, Deglis was able to make restorations to her house and hopes to be able to furnish it soon. She would love to continue her studies, which she believes will provide a better income for her to invest in her home.
Deglis’ journey highlights how community savings groups can bring financial independence to women in Nicaragua by not only giving them access to credit, but also providing them with the education, knowledge and skills to manage their money. These tools are invaluable in allowing Nicaraguan women to build a brighter future for themselves and their families.