We are dedicated to empowering marginalized communities across Karnataka through sustainable livelihood programs, health initiatives, quality education, and community development.
The Women Empowerment Program (WEP) by KROSS, initiated with the support of MISEREOR and in collaboration with 14 Diocesan Social Service Societies in 1998, aims to empower women by helping them recognize their leadership potential and improve their lives. The program focuses primarily on socio-economically vulnerable women from Karnataka, creating awareness to sustain development through targeted local interventions.
Women are oriented on fundamental rights such as access to food, shelter, property, and education, enhancing their social awareness and participation in governance. State and zonal level training on gender mainstreaming is provided, and self-help groups (SHGs) are formed to foster local support networks. KROSS’s efforts have led to the formation of federations at grassroots, taluk, district, and state levels, enabling women to claim their legitimate benefits and participate in local governance.
The program spans across 13 districts, 37 taluks, and 423 Gram Panchayats, reaching more than 9,07,000 women. WEP promotes a community-led movement for gender equality and empowerment through a highly participatory approach.
Capacitated women taking up community-based issues through creative leadership (2023 to 2026).
By June 2026, 7,500 committed and dedicated leaders emerged from 768 villages take up issues on social, economic, political, cultural, technical, and environmental levels, benefiting 70,000 poor women and their families.
By June 2026, 14 DSSS in Karnataka have 28 Gender Equality Facilitators’ teams, creating gender sensitivity among 50% of people in 768 villages, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and dignity.
By June 2026, accomplished state level federation functions for resolving issues of women and ensuring self-sustainability of its affiliated grassroots units.
Women Self Help Group meeting in Karnataka
KROSS women training program workshop
MSSS Team visit and field evaluation