Our commitment at SAHAYOG is to promote the health and well-being of communities, especially those that are marginalized. We believe that good health is a fundamental right, and our work focuses on building a strong foundation for a healthier society. We achieve this through a multi-pronged approach that addresses critical areas of public health.

SAHAYOG is committed to ensuring that all people, especially marginalized women and young people in Odisha, have equitable access to comprehensive SRHR information and services. Our work is built on three pillars: promoting awareness, challenging harmful practices, and advocating for supportive policies.As a member of CommonHealth, a multi-state coalition for maternal health and safe abortion, we contribute to vital evidence-based research. This collaboration helps us better understand and serve the needs of marginalized communities, shaping a more effective public health response.

We engage directly with our community through:

• Awareness Events: We host events for adolescents, young women, and health workers to build a foundation of knowledge.
• Sensitization Programs: Our programs challenge stigma and foster open dialogue, creating a more supportive environment.
• Capacity-Building Initiatives: We empower local health workers with the skills and knowledge they need to provide quality care.

We are dedicated to expanding our outreach so that everyone has the information and services they need to make informed decisions about their health.

Right to Safe Abortion

Recognizing that safe abortion is a critical health right that directly impacts maternal mortality, SAHAYOG has focused on this issue since 2021. As part of our work with CommonHealth, we strive to build community knowledge and reduce the stigma surrounding this essential care in Odisha.

Our efforts are making a tangible difference:

• Local Resources: We develop educational materials in the local Odia language to ensure information is accessible to a wider audience.
• Community Engagement: We work directly with women and grassroots service providers to promote a supportive and informed environment.
• Gender-Sensitive Advocacy: We consciously differentiate between the right to safe medical termination of pregnancy and the harmful, illegal practice of female feticide, promoting a clearer, more gender-sensitive understanding.

Our work is a catalyst for change. In 2024, ASHAs (Accredited Social Health Activists) providing dedicated safe abortion services were publicly recognized at a state-level program on International Safe Abortion Day. This powerful acknowledgment is a testament to their efforts in breaking through the stigma associated with abortion and ensuring women's health rights are upheld.