Sambhali Opens New Center for Women and LGBTQ+ in Jodhpur
This fall, Sambhali Trust launched its latest center of refuge for those facing discrimination and marginalization. Sambhali Sarai, which means “resting place”, provides emergency shelter for women escaping gender-based violence and for members of the LGBTQ+ community facing violence or who have been turned out by their families and much more.
The center runs vocational and educational training and helps members reestablish their lives. It also serves as a drop-in center for the LGBTQ+ community.
Local and international dignitaries, including Avinash Gehlot, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of Rajasthan, inaugurated the historic building which was purchased and is being restored thanks to generous donors like those who give to Sambhali U.S.
Even while renovations were being completed on some floors, Sambhali Trust began using available spaces for workshops with Sambhali participants, including a two-week workshop in hairstyling in collaboration with Hairdressers Without Borders. In early November, an Empowerment and Primary Education Center began operating in the building and in mid-November Sarai will be fully operational as a refuge for those escaping gender-based violence and family rejection.
Sambhali Sarai is the first of its kind, bringing together a holistic suite of programs to support women and the LGBTQ+ community. Sambhali U.S. extends its heartfelt congratulations to the staff and volunteers at Sambhali Trust who made this possible.
