The report presented in the following pages highlight major activities undertaken during the year and the impact created.

COMMUNITY HEALTH PROJECT

CRUSADE through the community health project provide rural communities the knowledge needed to improve their health and the means to address it in a cost effective manner, thus enabling them to break the cycle of poverty and ill health to enjoy better lives. This has motivated women and their families to seek early treatment for the disease.

Mobile Homoeopathy Treatment Clinics

Mobile Homoeopathy treatment clinics provide medical services for treatment of common diseases and minor ailments of the community .CRUSADE organises mobile clinics once in three months in 36 villages(spread over Sholavaram, Minjur and Gummidipondiblocks). In collaboration with Venketeswara Homoeopathic college and Hospital,Chennai- CRUSADE conducts Homoeopathy camps in 6 villages of Ellapuram block. In addition Homoeo treatment is provided in women wellness camps in 9 villages by female Homoeopath. These camps offer curative, preventive, promotive and referral services.

During the year CRUSADE Organized 212 mobile Homoeopathy treatment clinics (including elderly women camps).

Overall 7917 patients were treated in the clinics in which 3295 were new patients and 4622 attended for follow.

In addition to the mobile homoeopathy treatment clinics, 42 patients(15 new and 27follow up) were treated in homoeopathy clinic at Karanodai

The common Health problems treated were Arthritis particularly of knee joint, Respiratory diseases like Rhinitis,Asthma, Female reproductive diseases like menstrual irregularity, Poly cystic ovarian disease, Leucorrhea etc, Skin diseases like Eczema, Cracked heels, Warts etc ,Digestive disorders like Acidity, Abdominal cramps, Indigestion and Constipation are treated during the camps.

Hypertension and Diabetes Screening.

The screening for hypertension was done along with the mobile treatment clinics which include exclusive camps for women and Elderly.Totally6393 were screened for Blood pressurewhich identified 1387 persons as having hypertension,415confirmed cases and 972 in borderline.Blood glucose was checked for 676 persons of which110 were identified as having Diabetes. They were offered counseling, homoeopathy treatment and referral services.

Cervical and Breast cancer screening camp for women

The screening camps for Breast and Cervical cancer were conducted in collaboration with Penn Nalam hospital,Chennai. Pap smear test and X-ray mammogram were performed in a mobile unit to detect cancer for early diagnosis and as a preventive measure.In four Screening camps conducted 153 women were screened of whom25 were advised for further investigations and follow up to the hospital.

Eye Camps

In collaboration with Agarwal Eye Hospital-Chennai,CRUSADE organized 3 screening camps for cataract and vision problem in the project villages. 268 were screened for errors of vision and cataract. 16underwent cataract surgery and IOL implantation. The IOL implantation, food, lodging, medicines and transportation were offered free of cost. 162 persons were detected with refractive errors and CRUSADE arranged spectacles for them at nominal cost.

Dental Health Screening Camp for School students

CRUSADE in collaboration with MAHER Dental College, organized 2 dental screening camps aimed at promoting oral health among school students. These camps offered comprehensive dental awareness sessions and screening for common dental issues .During interactive sessions students engaged with dental professionals, gaining valuable insights into oral health practices. In the screening camps,315were diagnosed with minor to moderate dental problems, each receiving Patient card outlining the diagnosed issue and the recommended treatment plan. This initiative not only addressed immediate dental needs but also empowered students with knowledge for better oral health.

Ethical gift

(a).Delivery kit for New Born baby and Mother: CRUSADE identified 2 young mothers who were not covered under government scheme for Delivery kits, provided the kit containing mosquito net, towel for baby, cotton dress, baby powder, oil, soap and sanitary napkin for mother.

(b).Assistive device for special group members: Under the Ethical Gift scheme provision of Assistive sticks to the Visuallychallenged was added and during the year11 assistive sticks were distributed which enhanced their safety and reduced the risk of accidents.

(c) Distribution of Spectacles: As mentioned earlier under the Ethical Gift scheme162personsdetected with refractive errors were arranged spectaclesat nominal cost.

Health Education to Women

CRUSADE continued to provide Health education to SHG members to enhance their health knowledge while helping them seek early treatment for their health problem using 5 training modules developed for the purpose. The training was provided to 250 members of 24 newly formed Women self help groups.

a.Life Skill Education to SHGs and School Students

CRUSADE has been providing training in three modules on ten essential life skills as recommended by WHO -Self awareness, Empathy, Communication skills, Interpersonal relationship, Creative thinking, Critical thinking, Problem solving, Decision making and Coping with stress and Coping with Emotions. Each topic was designed to be interactive, Participatory, fostering a learning environment.

The life skill education to school students could enhance their self confidence and Independence and help them develop their identity and autonomy. The training is restricted to high school and higher secondary schools as it will be relevant to the senior students who are in the final year of schooling. Initial orientation sessions were conducted in 2 schools covering 139 students. b. Mental Health Education:

In addition to Life skill, the women are also given training in mental health using a separate module which helps the trainees to have an understanding on Mental Health, recognizing signs of mental illness, Coping strategies, seeking help and reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues. It provided practical guidance on maintaining good mental health and in supporting individuals facing mental health issues. During the year 106 women in 12 groups were trained in life skills and Mental Health.

The basic life skills provide tools to deal with challenges /demands of daily lives the women face from managing their emotions to making an informed decision. The members actively participate and clear their doubts .They also get clarity on addressing social stigma, ignorance, fear, misconception and faulty attitudes regarding mental illnesses.

Adolescent girls anaemia control programme

Adolescence is a critical life stage. Investments in nutrition, quality education and physical and mental health can offer profound dividends in adult life. An iron deficient diet perpetuates an inter-generational cycle of anemic women giving birth to infants who are born with low iron stores and grow to become anemic children. This devastates children's physical growth, mental development and school performance.

The pilot study on Adolescent girls anemia assessment and control programme supported by Salt of the Earth is carried out in 7 villages 3 in Sholovaram block,2 in Minjur block and 2 in Gummidipondi block. The programme comprises 200 adolescent girls between the age group 11-19 years. The programme includes Orientation,Periodic Assessment of Heamoglobin level through blood sampling, Health education on Personal and Menstrual Hygiene, Periodic distribution of Nutritional Health mix to all the girls, Distribution of a manual named NAN VALARGIREN”( IAM GROWING)in Tamil, Providing life skill education.

Hemoglobin assessment

Hemoglobin assessment is carried out periodically. The blood sampling is done instantly at the field and findings are recorded immediately.

The comparison of the assessments is shown in the table below.

ASSESSMENT	NORMAL (12 gm/dl above)	BORDERLINE	ANEMIC					TOTAL
			11-12 gm/dl	10-11 gm/dl	9-10 gm/dl	8-9 gm/dl	6-7 gm/dl
1st assessment	69	38	57	17	8	7	4	200
2nd assessment	85	37	43	18	11	4	2	200
3rd assessment	79	41	53	16	5	0	6	200
4th assessment	104	26	44	13	7	5	1	200
5th assessment	100	28	50	17	2	3	0	200

The chart below shows the increase in the number of girls with normal HB levels. The 6th assessment is due in May-June 24.

b).Providing health mix
Health mix was provided regularly to all girls and were advised to make a porridge and consumeregularly in the morning. Apart from the increase in Heamoglobin levels many of the girls were able tofeel the difference physically like regularity inmenstrual cycle, less menstrual cramps,improvement in hunger and being more active. The health mix would be provided periodically.

c).Health education and health manual
The adolescent girls were provided health education on Personal and Menstrual hygiene. All the 200 girls were provided the manual NAN VALARGIREN which means IAM GROWING. The manual explains the Adolescence, the changes that occurs physically and mentally during adolescence, Menstrual Hygiene, Anemia its causes and symptoms, Diet rich in iron etc.

d).Life skill education
The 10 core life skills as suggested by WHO, that need to be acquired by every individual to lead a successful life is taught and explained to the adolescent girls through various activities and games during the sessions. The 10 skills are modified into three chapters and explained to them in simple understandable way with examples.

Health Committees

Health committees are formed in the villages to ensure community participation in Environmental and Health activities. Decentralization and people’s participation have been considered key strategies for making Health care and Sanitation services effective and enable people safeguard the environment.

CRUSADE has formed health committees formed in 13 villages (Athur, New Erumaivetti Palayam, Inamagaram, Natham in Sholavaram block, Devadhanam, Kaniambakkam, Kalpakkam, Madimai Kandigai,A.Reddypalayam in Minjur block, Enathimelpakkam and Chinna Natham in Gummidipoondi block, Athivakkam and Azhinjivakkam in Ellapuram block).

Objectives of Health Committee

• Promote better environment through composting and solid waste management
• Avoid using toxic wastes-plastics, polythene bags
• Adopt good health practices
• Contribute in reducing global warming and Climate change.
• Taking pro-active measures during epidemics.

Members of the Committee

Health workers and Cluster/Block coordinators of CRUSADE are the conveners who involve the key persons in the community-Panchayat functionaries, Panchayat level Federation leaders, Village school Headmaster/Teacher, Anganwadi workers, Sanitation workers, Village Nurse, Women SHG and Special group members.

Highlights of activities of Health Committees during the year

Athur-HC has convinced the panchayat to allocate common land of about 1,5 acres and with the support of CRUSADE planted 65 mango saplings and looked after by Health committee members.

New Erumaivettipalayam-HC distributed dustbins to 10 households to segregate bio degradable and non degradable wastes and a request letter was given to government officials to construct a common toilet for SHG building in the village, for use during meetings. A common land is to be identified in the village so that vegetables are grown organically and kitchen waste can be utilized as manure and the vegetables can be shared among village people.

In late march 2024 there was distress among people in the village as seven persons were identified as having Dengue fever. The HC promptly informed the panchayat president who escalated the issue to the Health department. Health department personnel initiated sanitation efforts by disinfecting the mosquito breeding sites. CRUSADE distributed Homoeopathic preventive medicine for Dengue fever to 76 families encompassing 237 individuals. The resultwas remarkable. Not a single new case of Dengue was reported after the distribution of preventive medicine.The timely action of the HC saved lives of people in the village.

In Inamagaram village, the drainage system channels were open which breed mosquitoes. HC was successful in ensuring that the panchayat close the open drainage within 3 weeks. Also the HC members visited three water tanks in the village and observed that they were not properly cleaned. They liaised with the Panchayat Office to address the issue and subsequently the HC members took charge of monitoring the cleanliness of the water tanks, with each member assigned to oversee one tank. Regular monthly inspections are conducted to ensure proper maintenance.

NathamHC initiated a street play campaign to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic usage and the burning of plastics during Bogi festival. The campaign aimed to educate the community about environmental and Health hazards associated with such practices.
The HC in Devadhanam is planning to produce compost manure from kitchen waste and degradable waste by constructing a waste collecting chamber with reinforced concrete rings.
A.Reddypalayam HC has created awareness on Dengue fever, its prevention and treatment.
Kaniyambakkam and Kalpakkam- The HC members have identified and listed the households without toilet and soak pit facilities and motivated them to construct the facilities availing government schemes through the panchayat.
Madimai Kandigai HC is in the process of identifying the agricultural land to cultivate vegetables organically.
Azhinjivakkam- Proper composting using the compost tanks constructed by the Panchayat.
Enathimelpakkam- The HC members inspected the houses in the villages where there is stagnation of water and urged the households to ensure there is no water stagnation as a preventive measure against Dengue and other diseases. The HC in the village also ensured the households living on the bank of the lake to get piped water supply as there was severe scarcity of water for these households.
Health committees in other villages are in nascent stage and are in the process of initiating suitable environment promotion activities.
The Health Committees play an instrumental role in organizing health camps, Screening programs, mobilizing patients for treatment during camps, participate in relief activities during Natural disasters.

Distribution of First aid box and Blood pressure Monitor.

CRUSADE distributed 12 first aid boxes to Community Volunteers for use during minor injury in the village.7 volunteers were provided Digital Blood pressure Monitor for screening special group members and elderly women members during the monthly meetings. Also people with symptoms of low and High blood pressure get themselves checked in emergency situations and are referred to PHC or to the Mobile camps as needed.

WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

Status of WSHGs

The number WSHGs at the end of March, 2024 in Minjur and Sholavaram have increased to 422 and there are more than 6000 women in the groups. Almost all the groups have bank account. CRUSADE focused more on Stabilizing and strengthening WSHGs rather than forming more groups as the groups formation have already reached saturation level in rural areas in Tamilnadu. The number of groups, members and groups having bank account in the two blocks with number of hamlets covered are given in the table below.

Block	Villages (No)	Groups (No)	Groups with Bank Account	Members (No)
Minjur	60	294	285	4214
Sholavaram	40	128	127	1796
Total	100	422	412	6010

In Ellapuram and Gummidipoondi, although CRUSADE works with WSHGs, the groups are not monitored of their financial transactions as they directly deal with banks, Government to avail loans and grant. CRUSADE’s engagement with groups is restricted to promoting Environment (tree plantation, kitchen garden and herbal plants), skill training, village development, etc. However, two WSHG’s with 27 members in Ellapuram block (Kadanallur village) have been affiliated to CRUSADE and one group has been arranged ICICI Bank loans to one group twice.

Savings, Common Fund and Audit Of Group Accounts

The financial data of WSHGs are collected once in three months by CRUSADE Staff and consolidated at project level. The combined savings and common fund of 318 SHGs at the end of December,2023 was Rs 10.3 crores( 103million rupees) which work out to Rs 3.15 lakh/group.

CRUSADE arranged external audit of annual account of 94 SHGs for 2022/23 accounts. Once the audit statements are received the audit comments are passed on to the groups such as excess expenses, heavy cash balance etc. However there are no major discrepancies noticed in the accounts of SHGs audited. The block level coordinators have been directed to visit the remaining groups which are not audited to assess their financial status and report the possibility of subjecting the groups to external audit in 2024/25.

Bank Linkages

During the year, 1731 members in 301 WSHGs have availed RS.12.12Crores(121 million rupees) of external loans from various sources(Banks, Panchayat Level Federations, Village Poverty Reduction Committees). This works out to 4 lakh/group. In addition CRUSADE provided from its Revolving Fund, advances to tune of Rs.22lakh to 6 groups(77 members).The group members utilize the loans for various livelihood priorities: Economic activities, Children’s education, Housing, Medical expenses, Social functions etc.

Skill Training and Sewing Machine Distribution

During the year, tailoring training was provided to 3 batches for a duration of 6 months in three villages ( One each in Minjur, Sholavaram and Ellapuram block). In the 3 batches 63 womencompleted the training and several are engaged in sewing cloths for the neighborhood and supplement their family income.

Two disabled women who completed the training (one each in Minjur and Ellapuram) were given sewing machines free of cost after the completion of the training.

CRUSADE distributed certificates to two batches that completed the training during the visit of SOTE supporters/Trustees visit in January/February 2024.

In Old Erumaivetti palayam 25 of the women who completed the tailoring training are undergoing further skill training in AARI work (Embroidery) organized by Panchayat which will help them earn much more income as the charges for aari work is very high which are exclusively worn during marriages and other functions.

In Natham village in Gummidipoondi where 25 women who completed tailoring training last year ,it is observed that several of them are utilizing the skill to complement the family income through self-employment. Those who could not purchase the sewing machine due to poverty have approached CRUSADE’s support for acquiring a sewing machine. With the consultation of the Panchayat President,CRUSADE helped 10 of them to buy new machines with 50% contribution by individual members. CRUSADE met the remaining amount under village Sponsorship Programme.

Self Employment

With the availability of loans and capacity building training, more women members in SHGs are now engaged in self employment activity which is catching momentum with several of them venturing non conventional economic activities- starting readymade garments shop, Stationeries and Fancy shops, rearing love birds, Sugar cane juice centers, Tiffin centre and eateries.

Women who are not able to be entrepreneurs are at least engaged in Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme which fetches 100 daysofwork in a year and earn around RS.300/day.

Participation Of WSHGs in Government/Panchayat Activities

WSHGs and PLFs(Panchayat Level Federations) works closely with CRUSADE and Panchayat in various Health Promotion, Environment Improvement and Village development activities. The following are some of the other activities WSHGs are engaged in 2023/24.

Identify families below Poverty line-send the name list to Government authorities and to enhance their livelihood enable them to get loans at concessional interest rate.
Identify people who are self employed and get them loan from PLF.
Recommend Differently abled who are self-employed/aspire to start a business to get interest free loans from Government.
Help differently abled persons to get enrolled in National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme.
In a couple of Panchayats SHGs help to form Farmers groups to encourage organic cultivation and get them agriculture equipment and input from Government.
Recommend suitable grass root workers for outreach government schemes that promote home based Medical care, Education, Sanitation.

DISABILITY PROJECT.

CRUSADE’s strategy in providing services to Persons with Disability commenced with the setting up of special disability groups consisting of both male and female PwDs of all ages. The groups serve as a vehicle to deliver services and to empower the disabled. The groups are encouraged and taught basics of savings and thrift and internal lending. It empowered PwDs to understand finances and develop the confidence to engage in Economic activities to obtain supplementary income.CRUSADE serves as an intermediary between the Government and PwDs and ensures that the beneficiaries are aware of and avail the benefits all Government schemes.

The programme aims to improve the status of people with disabilities and enable them to live a life of dignity and self-reliance. It addresses disability not just as a health issue but also as socio-economic and rights based programme. It promotes a holistic model where it ensures that the differently abled people have access to Government welfare schemes but also provides support in other areas of importance such as health and rehabilitation, education, physiotherapy, livelihood and right to take ownership and responsibility for decisions that impact their life. The chart shows the comparison of data of PWDs during the year 2023 and 2024 and are explained in detail in the following paragraphs.

Groups, ID cards and maintenance allowance from the State

In April 2023, the number of groups was 203 and the number of PwDs enrolled were 2056. The number of groups has now increased to 229 with around 2314 PwDs enrolled.

The members having ID cards increased from 1711 to 2013. CRUSADE assisted more groups to open Bank accounts and now 149 groups have bank account. The number of PwDs receiving monthly maintenance allowance of Rs.1500/2000month from the state increased from 1287 to 1429 during the period. Most of the Mentally challenged persons receive Rs 2000/month. The TN state has increased the monthly allowance to Rs 1500/month for those who are receiving Rs1000 from Jan, 2023.

CRUSADE motivates and helps PwDs to attend monthly camps organized by state Government in PonneriTaluk hospital to obtain ID cards. During the year alone CRUSADE assisted more than 100 PwDs to get ID cards which were issued on the day itself after medical assessment. Also CRUSADE assists some of them who didn’t get maintenance allowance from the stategovernmentin writing to Chief Minister’s cell to escalate the demand.

Educational support to children of the Disabled

CRUSADE has been providing a small grant to school going children of poor PWDs to meet their school expenses post- Corona pandemic. During the year 106 students (48 students in Sholavaram and Ellapuram, 58 students in Gummidipondi) received RS.1000 grant from the project which was remitted in their bank account.

Economic activities

CRUSADE carried out data collection of special groups. Analysis of data collected showed that 995 have enrolled in National Rural employment Guarantee programme,273 are self employed,36 are employed in various government sectors and 110 are employed in private sectors.The project continues to motivate people to get into an economic activity except in cases where the extent of disability is profound or if they are mentally challenged.

Loans from Bank / PLF / VPRC

During the year82members in 20 special groups have obtained loans total Rs 23.35lakhsfrom Panchayat Level Federations and Village Poverty Reduction Committees. 124 members from 19 groups have obtained RS.32.75 lakhsloanfrom banks and the loans were utilized mainly for Housing, Income generation activity and for children’s marriage and education.

CRUSADE provided financial assistance of Rs.5,70,000 to 28 members in 7PwDs groups, who utilized the amount for Income generation activities such as petty shop, basket weaving and grocery shop and for housing.

Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy

In collaboration with The Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research, Chennai (MAHER) which has all medical courses including Physiotherapy and Occupational therapy.CRUSADE organized an orientation session for Staff and Health volunteers on Occupational therapy.Faculty of Occupational therapy department from Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research,Chennai were invited to provide the orientation. The Principal of the faculty, one senior occupational therapist and 3 interns from the college handled the one day orientation session.

The orientation programme introduced the concept and scope of Occupational Therapy. It was explained that Occupation Therapists help with barriers that affect a person’s emotional,social and Physical needs. The areas of its application include Pediatric, Neurology, Orthopedic, Geriatric, Mental illness,Autism, Learning disability etc. The main aim of the therapy is to improve fine motor skills so that the affected parts are better used to improve the patient’s ability to perform activities of daily living. The therapy also analyses the environment of the person and brings a suitable modification that helps the individual perform the task better and independently.

Following the orientation, CRUSADE organized a screening camp at Thinaipakkam centre (Minjur) in which 47 persons with Disability (50% of them children)from four blocks attended the camp. The faculty members from MAHER thoroughly screened all the patients and made preliminary suggestions for the follow up. Proper Occupational Therapywillbe very helpful to most of persons with Disability who attended the Screening camp. During the year 2023-24 MAHER physiotherapy wing senior students visited CRUSADE villages in September and followed up 30 PwDs for further in situ training.

Integrating Health Care

As recommended in the health evaluation, in an attempt to provide health care to PwDs in Special groups, a Homoeopathic physician visits the special groups on regular basis. During 2023-24, 137 special groups were visited in 4 blocks to provide Medical treatment, Counseling and Referral services to those having health issues. The members of the special groups are also motivated to attend the mobile clinics, women wellness camp,Eye camp and other camps organized by CRUSADE in project villages. Thus185 PWDs attended Homoeopathic camps and got treated for their health problem. The process helps in early detection of health problems of this vulnerable population and for suitable intervention. The visiting doctor also recommends the assistive devices needed by PWDs and the organization takes initiative to provide the devices.

Life Skill Education to PWDS

CRUSADE has been providing Life skill training to WSHG members using the three modules on ten essential life skills.Additionally a fourth module on Mental Health provided practical guidance on maintaining good mental health despite physical disabilities.

During the year CRUSADE extended life skill training to 42 special groups in three blocks. 201 PWDs attended the training. Realizing the effectiveness,CRUSADE decided to provide the training to more special groups in the current year 2024-25.

Flood Relief

The 2023 monsoon brought unprecedented rain in some areas in Tamilnadu and in the impact the modest houses of PwDS, mostly with thatch roof were fully damaged. With the support of Salt of the Earth, CRUSADE revamped thatch roof of five homes of disabled women (one each in Minjur, Gummidipoondi and Sholavaram and two in Ellapuram). In addition mud flooring of house of one member was converted into concrete floor.

Assistive Devices

CRUSADE contacted Athinath Jain trust, Chennai for providing prosthesis limbs and other assistive devices to PwDs in the project area.

ORGANISATION	WALKING STICK	WALKER	ELBOW WALKING STICK	CALLIPER	STANDING FRAME	BLIND STICK	WHEEL CHAIR	TRICYCLE	HEARING AID	PROSTHETIC LIMB	MOTOR BIKE	KNEE CAP	TOTAL
CRUSADE	28	4	4	0	0	5	1	0	0	0	0	3	45
ADINATH JAIN TRUST	26	10	4	6	0	0	8	6	21	18	0	0	99
GOVERNMENT	0	2	1	0	2	2	1	9	1	0	1	0	19

Progress of ‘Vallamai’ (Strength), the Federation of special groups of the Disabled-Vallamai Trust

Vallamai is a registered Federation of Special groups of the disabled. 184 groups in all the four blocks have joined the federation and the groups also pay an Annual subscription of RS.100 to show their solidarity. Vallamai has a built in Revolving Fund which the trust uses for providing financial assistance at low interest to PWDs for Income generation, Housing and Medical care. During the year Vallamai provided loans to 12 PWDs in 6 group- RS.3,40,000.

Vallamai had its 6thAGM in February, 2024in which,Vallamai handed a small grant assistance of RS.5000 to legal heir of the PwDs who lost their lives during the year as an immediate relief to the family. The AGM was attended by 80 PWDs from all four blocks, CRUSADE staff and Health Volunteers.

To recognize and appreciate the performance of special groups 20 best performing Special groups were selected based on certain criteria and were honored by AVI founder/AdviserIvanwho was present on the occasion with his partner Jennie. A dance performance by Prabu, a differently abled person with one leg,who rebuilt life after an accident ,was one of the highlights of the events

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Monitoring

The groups are monitored by the project coordinators and cluster coordinatorswho attend cluster level meetings every month which discuss opening of bank accounts for groups (which do not have bank account), plan for securing ID cards/ maintenance allowance, physiotherapy needs, review of IG activities, inclusion of new members in the groups, review of group meetings in the villages and creating awareness on Government schemes etc. The groups which cannot participate in cluster level meetings due to remoteness and mobility issues meet separately which is attended by block coordinators as feasible.

VILLAGE SPONSORSHIP PROGRAMME

The village Sponsorship Programme was initiated in 2017 with funding support from Salt of the Earth. The villages sponsored by the donor contribute on an annual basis to address the basic needs of the village/School which is taken up in collaboration with village communities/schools. The type of programme differed from village to village depending on the felt needs of the People. The priority is given for potable water, water storage, school building renovation, infrastructure and sanitation in schools. Presently four villages are covered under sponsorship programme, two in Gummidipoondi, one in Ellapuram and one in Minjur Block.

• Thandalacherry village-(Gummidipoondi Block)- During the year two buildings of Government middle school were renovated. In May/June 2023, CRUSADE organized relaying the roof, repairing the iron doors and windows, tiled the floor and plastered the cracks in the walls. The Panchayat met repainting and decoration expenses.
• Natham village (Gummidipoondi Block)-In Natham village CRUSADE assisted the school with a public address system for use during meetings, annual celebrations and parent teachers association meetings. CRUSADE has provided an Amplifier, Sound boxes, wireless and cable microphone equipment to the school which was funded exclusively by the village sponsorship programme.
• CRUSADE in the previous year organized tailoring training to women in Natham village in which 25 participated and learnt the skill.During the year 10 women who could not afford sewing machines were provided sewing machines with 50% contribution by beneficiaries. The remaining was met from Village sponsorship programme.
• Akkarapakkam village (Ellapuram block) -In Akkarapakkam village CRUSADE improved the water supply at the Primary school. The school is connected to a piped water supply but due to a small and
• damaged water tank they were unable to store any water. CRUSADE erected a 2000 litre water tank which was mounted on around platform constructed for the purpose of storing water for the school. CRUSADE also renovated the damaged roof (2000sq feet) of the Primary school in the village.
• Kaniyambakkam village (Minjur Block) –In Kaniyambakkam village CRUSADE provided 30 sewing machines in two batches (20 earlier this year and 10 recently).The machines were supplied at 80% subsidy to the 30 SHG members who underwent six months tailoring training previously. In the High school, 35 sets of long iron desks and benches have been de-rusted and repainted for use by students under the village sponsorship programme.

WATER PROJECT-ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER

CRUSADE's water project aims to provide clean water to villages in its project areas, addressing the pressing issue of water-borne diseases. This transformational initiative eliminates health problems and saves valuable time and energy for community members, particularly women, allowing them to focus on other essential tasks.

During the year CRUSADE have completed 2 water projects – one each in Minjur and EllapuramCRUSADEhave dug a bore well at Velur village in Minjur block in the spot identified through water divining. The depth of the borewell is 90 feet which will benefit 150 households through the Over Head Tank supply of water.

The Second water Project has been completed in Azhinjivakkam, Ellapuram Block. The bore well was dug for 120 feet and a 2000ltr capacity water tank was installedwhich will benefit 50 families living around the tank. The surplus water pumped to the common Over Head tank for supply to all households in the village. CRUSADE has spent around Rs 2 lakh for each of the project.

ENVIRONMENT

Tree plantation

As in the past , WSHs and Special group members are involved in planting fruit and timber tree saplings in their homestead .CRUSADE procured and distributed through WSHGs and PWD groups 1300 tree saplings of different fruit and timber varieties in the project villages in four blocks. The tree saplings were distributed to 118 SHG and 18 special group members. The varieties of fruit/timber include Mango, Banana, Guava, Coconut, Grapes, Pomegranate, Gooseberry, Drumstick, Chikku, Orange and Teak. In addition 65 mango tree saplings were distributed to Athur panchayat for plantation in common land.

Promotion Kitchen gardens

CRUSADE procured 20 kgs of seeds from a reputed dealer in Trichy and distributed them well ahead of monsoon . The seeds include packets greens, beans, bitter gourd, bottle gourd, snake gourd,ladies finger, tomato, radish. We have also procured some seeds locally.

The field staff packed the seeds in 5/10grams and distributed 3400 vegetable seed packets to 750 members of WSHGs and PWDs groups to grow vegetables organically in their backyards mostly for home consumption and thereby improve the nutritional status of the family members.

Climate Change Adaptation through use of Solar Energy

AVI has initiated a new seed funding opportunity entitled ‘Partnership Solidarity Fund’ from this financial year (2023-24) to help partners identify innovative ideas and pilot them for learning and scale up after success. This fund is envisaged to spur innovations and deepen the impact on the communities the partners of AVI are serving. AVI called for proposals for the first round of the fund in March 2023 from its partners. Based on the call, CRUSADE had submitted a proposal on ‘Climate Change Adaptation Through use of Solar Energy (for powering households).’This pilot initiative is to promote the use of renewable energy, particularly solar energy, for household level energy use, particularly in low income segments.

CRUSADE had extended support to seven households to go for solar energy for powering their basic household requirements – lights, fan and plug points. These beneficiaries were identified from women SHG members and community volunteers of CRUSADE who would allow opportunities for follow up and sustenance of the initiative.

All the units are functioning well. We are receiving positive feedback from the end user beneficiaries. There is also increasing visibility of the systems with the neighbors and other households in the villages. More members have started expressing desire to access such facilities for their households as well. CRUSADE with funding assistance from SOTE is extending the programme in the current year 2024-25.

CRUSADE used the people’s contribution of Rs 21,000 mobilized from beneficiaries of Home solar DC systems, to procure the single bulb solar lights with mobile charger at a cost of Rs. 1000/- per unit and distributed to 14 households in ‘Erikarai’ free of cost. For the first time since more than 10 years, the members were able to enjoy lighting in their houses. Women were able to use the light for cooking and Children were delighted to use this for studying and doing their home assignments in the late evening hours. The charged battery inbuilt light can be taken to the fields at night also to avoid snakes and other poisonous insects while walking in the field.

ELDERLY WOMEN GROUPS

CRUSADE has been forming Women Self Help Groups (WSHGs) since early 90s and many women in the groups have attained superannuation status and therefore are not able tocontinue in the groups (as they cannot save money regularly, pay subscription and avail loansas they have no source of income to repay the loans) nor do they have access to medical careand other services. But the elderly women are vulnerable with age related health problem and loneliness,mobility issues and financial nsecurity.Although many of these women live withfamily, they are often neglected when they require constant attention, company and support fortheir small and vital needs.

CRUSADE has formed 25 Elderly women Groups enrolling 426 elderly women. The groups are visited by Health professionals once in three months to provide medical care and diagnostic services.

During the year CRUSADE conducted 14 Geriatric camps in which 182 were screened for hypertension and 73 having symptoms were screened for Blood glucose level. 30 of them having high BP and another 10 having Diabetes were given advice and medicines.CRUSADEalsoassists eligible elderly women in applying for the Government Old Age Pension, ensuring they receive crucial financial support. CRUSADE also promotes social well being through educational sessions using the book “Welfare of the Elderly”.

CRUSADE organizes recreational tours for Elderly women members to Chennai and Mahabalipuram, allowing them to explore historical sites, temples and beaches. During 2023-24, 45 elderly women members from Sholavaram block visited beach, memorials and temples in Chennai.

VISITORS.

In Jan 2023-24,AVIAdviserIvan and his partner Jennie visited the project areas and were present during the AGM of Vallamai Trust. During the same monthMurray and two other Trustees with Lena, Development Officer visited the project villages, spending four days.

Inthefirst week of February 2024, eight supporters of SOTE visited the project villages.Chriswild,AVIFounder visited the project villages for one day. During the third week of Feb 2024, 12 students and 3 teachers from UK with two from SOTE visited the project villages, particularlywater project sponsored by them and schools.

In the last week of Feb 2024, Ms.KavitaPande,Executive Director, AVI(UK) visited the project villages of CRUSADE spending two days.

STAFFING

CRUSADE staff structure include one Project Executive, two Programme Associates, one Block level Co-ordintator, one Medical officer ( Homoeopathy system of Medicine) , six Cluster coordinators and two drivers, one accountant and 9 support staff. Besides 12 Community volunteers are engaged part time.

INFRASTRUCUTRE

During the year with part financial support from Salt of the Earth, CRUSADE built the compound for the Environmental Centre. . The cost of the construction on two sides (510 feet) was Rs 9.48 lakh. Of this in the reporting year Rs 7.21 was spent with Salt of the Earth contributing Rs 4.30lakh,the remaining met from domestic sources.

CRUSADE carried out plastering of training hall and kitchen at the above centre at a cost of Rs 2.10 lakh, both met from Salt of the Earth funds.

The sanitary units (6) at Karanodai office was renovated with new closets and floor tiles at a cost of Rs 80,000 with Salt of the Earth funds.

The roof of office building at Thinaipakkam was repaired, incurring Rs 64,000 which was met from CRUSADE own sources. To conclude CRUSADE is extremely grateful to both SOTE and AVI for their unstinted support to CRUSADE’s initiatives.. CRUSADE is thankful to staff for their cooperation and commitment and to members for their strong support in the journey.