In July 2017, Padmini was admitted into hospital for the delivery of her seventh child, praying that she’d have a male child after having six daughters.

Their families, beliefs, and society demanded they have a male child, a heir in the family.

Girls are often considered to be liabilities in their southern Indian town of Anantapur, and need to be protected, while boys are considered as providers and protectors of the families.

But fate had another plan.

While Padmini was admitted into the hospital for the delivery of her seventh daughter, her husband had a kidney failure and died 9 days later.

After losing the sole breadwinner of her family, and getting rejected by her in-laws for not having a son, Padmini was sent away—with no money to support herself and her children.

“I have nothing, all I am left with is seven children, and the expenditure for their food and education,” says Padmini.

Currently, Padmini and her seven children survive on the pension of her father who is 70-year-old.

“During the pandemic, I feared what would happen to them if I die with COVID-19,” says Padmini’s father, Anjineyulu.

Padmini recognizes that the way forward for a better future is to give children a good education and ensure that they stand on their own feet, independently.

As the family struggled between hope and despair for their survival, Rural Development Trust (RDT) supported them with the education and expenses of four girls and continues to give nutrition support to the family.

To help Padmini generate income, RDT provided her with a tailoring machine. As RDT continues to support the family in their struggles, Padmini and her children hope for a better future.

If you’re able to contribute to the Rural Development Trust (RDT) and support rural women and children in southern India, support our education campaign today: https://vffusa.networkforgood.com/projects/147498-give-the-gift-of-education

Text and photos by Ernest Abhishek Paul,  adapted by Vicente Ferrer Foundation USA