25/شوال/1430 12:00 ص

We know that when women organize and participate in the economy, their household incomes increase, allowing them to invest in their families' health care, food and education and providing a solid foundation for stability and development in their communities. But in developing countries where there is widespread gender discrimination and little or no industry or private sector jobs, women often have to create their own economic opportunity. That is where CARE's microfinance programs--which provide financial services for the poor--can make a difference. Phil Borges took photographs of women participating in CARE's village savings and loan associations.