In Pakistan, approximately 40% of the population is illiterate. And persecuted Christians are often denied education as a form of religious discrimination. So many make a difficult choice: working in one of the nation’s 20,000 brick kilns.
“While working in the kiln, I raised a large family of five daughters and four sons,” Azeeb tells us. “Providing for such a large family was challenging, especially within this industry that is known for low wages.” But through the generous gifts of our donors, GCR was able to change Azeeb and his family’s lives forever.
“My life was completely transformed when I received generous support from GCR and their partners. They paid off my debt to the brick kiln, giving me the opportunity to earn full wages.” Azeeb continues to work in the kilns—work he’s known most of his life—but his wages are no longer heavily taxed. He receives a full paycheck.
“The increase in my income has made our financial and living situations significantly more stable. My family and I are now free from the mental and physical stress that we had as a result of our loans.” Maybe just as important as receiving funds, Azeeb feels self-worth. In his own words, he says, “I no longer feel like a slave.”
