CREA Welcomes Eight New CSOs and Networks to the FON Project

By: Saeda Bani

 

In August 2024, CREA’s FON team successfully onboarded eight new Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and networks as part of its ongoing commitment to build the capacity of feminist movements, via flexible sub-grants and organizational development support, especially for small organizations, often non-registered, to address and respond to gender-based violence (gbv). The online onboarding sessions were designed to familiarize the new members with the FON project and to discuss important topics such as safeguarding practices, grant management, financial compliance, program requirements, and communication strategies.

The newly onboarded organizations and networks span across Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, each receiving grants through different funding windows (Windows 2 and 3), tailored to support diverse community needs and initiatives.

Grants Awarded in Bangladesh

Several organizations in Bangladesh were recipients of grants:

Window 2: Jago Nari Unnayan Sanstha (JNUS) and Nice Foundation were awarded grants to support their efforts in advancing women’s rights and social justice.

Window 3:

• Bangladesh Land-Rights Alliance (BLRN), hosted by Badabon Sangho, aims to protect land rights and support marginalized communities.
• Rape Law Reform Coalition (RLRC) and Cyber Support for Women and Children (CSWC), both hosted by Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST), focus on legal reforms and digital safety.
• Sex Workers Network (SWN), hosted by Ashar Alo Society (AAS), works towards the rights and well-being of sex workers.
• Showhardo Alliance, hosted by Bandhu Social Welfare Society, advocates for the rights of marginalized populations and promotes social welfare.

Grants Awarded in Sri Lanka

In Sri Lanka, grants were awarded to networks committed to advocating for minority rights and social equity:

Window 3:

• Sexual Minority Community Networks, a combined initiative of the Care Consortium and Red Umbrella network hosted by Diversity and Solidarity Trust (DAST), focuses on the rights of sexual minorities.
• Women’s Network Collective, hosted by Women Education and Research Center (WERC), aims to empower women through education and research.

 

Through these grants, CREA continues to support and empower local organizations that strive to eradicate gbv in their communities. By fostering collaboration and providing essential resources, the FON project aims to enhance the capacity of CSOs in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to promote social justice, gender equality, and eradicate gbv.

 

FON now funds and supports 20 CSOs to eradicate all sorts of gbv in South Asia.