An Arzu rug is an investment in hope.

Bibi Khal’s Journey of Hope

BiBi KHAl, 49, has four children and lives with her husband’s extended family. With 13 people

living under one roof, Bibi Khal’s house is uncomfortably crowded, and tensions run high because

all of the men are unemployed. Bibi Khal and the other women rely solely on rug weaving to support

their family.

Under the Taliban, life was especially difficult. Bibi Khal’s young children became weaker from

hunger every day. The family also fell into debt because Bibi Khal’s sister-in-law had complications

during childbirth. “We sold everything for the $2,000 needed to save her life,” Bibi Khal says. “Our

economic condition was very poor.”

Soon after, Bibi Khal discovered Arzu and joined the program. “With Arzu’s help our life is getting

better,” she says. “Arzu gives us bonus money, and we are able to solve our problems. We are so

much happier with Arzu’s help.” Arzu has also given Bibi Khal and her relatives access to health

care and education. “We have learned reading and writing. We hope Arzu will always help all of us

poor people.”