Participatory Village Development Program (PVDP)

The Participatory Village Development Program (PVDP) was established in 1997 by local development workers with a vision of contributing to government and civil-society efforts to improve primary health and education, sustainable livelihoods, and community empowerment — and thereby protect and promote people's social, economic, and political rights. PVDP works with men, women, and children, including minorities, who are socioeconomically disadvantaged due to their circumstances and identities.

Following the 2010 floods in Pakistan, PVDP is strengthening and diversifying women's income-generation opportunities and improving the living conditions of landless Hindu-minority households who were left out relief and recovery in the aftermath because of their minority status. With UUSC support, 200 families are benefitting from the distribution of sheep and chickens, water filters, and doors and windows for newly rebuilt shelters — along with organizing that will enable communities to better understand and demand their rights.