Improving Dignity and Safety through Household Sanitation
Access to safe sanitation remains a major challenge for many rural households, particularly affecting women, children, and elderly family members. Lalita Kiran Dinkar lives with her family of eight members in a rural community where the absence of a household toilet created daily difficulties. For years, family members—especially the women—had to leave their home to find a place in the open for sanitation. This was not only inconvenient but also unsafe and undignified, particularly for elderly members of the household who struggled to walk long distances. Seasonal conditions often made the situation even more difficult, forcing the family to depend on unsafe and uncomfortable alternatives. Recognizing the importance of safe sanitation for health and dignity, Janvikas Samajik Sanstha, with support from Owens Corning India Private Limited, facilitated the construction of a household sanitation unit for Lalita’s family. With the installation of the toilet facility at home, the family now has access to a safe and private sanitation space. The intervention has significantly improved the dignity, safety, and daily convenience of the household, particularly for women and elderly members who previously faced the greatest hardship.
“Earlier it was very difficult for the women and elderly members in our family to go outside for a toilet. Now we have a toilet at home, which gives us privacy and safety. This support has brought great relief to our entire family.”