We need to raise $70,000 to fully fund Brick Kilns 360° this year. Can you help?
Sangita, a brick kiln worker and her elderly donkey, Shali. Sangita’s donkeys were suffering from colic and tetanus before Sangita started working with Brooke India. “Now we know about the importance of vaccines and medicines to stop our donkeys from suffering.” Photo By: Harish Damade
It’s difficult to imagine working in the Brick Kiln industry in India – the relentless heat, the monotonous work, overloaded donkeys. Little shade, rest or water.
But even under these conditions, the work of one donkey can support a family of six.
If they work hard enough.
Donkeys loaded with bricks, often weighing over 300lbs, typically make 20-27 daily trips. Usually in a poorly fitted, unpadded harness over broken terrain.
It’s estimated that in India alone, there are more than 100,000 brick kilns. Many families are little more than indentured workers overloading their animals so they can make the day’s quota.
Our ambitious new project, Brick Kilns 360°, looks to change all of that.
With your support, we can reach 4,500 working horses, donkeys, mules, and 9,700 brick kiln laborers and their families. The ripple effect of your gift is immense, touching not only the lives of these animals but also empowering families, fostering economic resilience, and nurturing community growth for future generations.
We’re $70,000 short of our $250,000 budget for the year.
Donations to Brick Kilns 360° will provide emergency treatments to donkeys, and allow them to be visited regularly by veterinarians, farriers, and field assistants who will administer vaccinations and give welfare checks over the course of five years. These professionals will also teach animal owners the best handling practices and first aid basics.
The cornerstone of the 360° approach is to nurture and strengthen the skills of community members by teaching them self-sustaining income-generating enterprises like making saddle pads and growing fodder. Ventures to help uplift them out of poverty while providing better care for their donkeys!
We know the 360° approach works we just need you to help us reach our goal of $70,000.
Please show you care for these desperate animals by donating today. Your donation provides hope and health now and for the future.
