Provide a family with a donkey and they'll feel the benefits for years to come. These hardy animals can carry goods long distances to and from market, can collect fuel or building materials, and provide fertiliser for crops and gardens.

In the flood-prone area of Jhang, Pakistan, Oxfam Unwrapped funded donkeys and carts for women who had to look after their families with few other resources. The frequent flooding made growing crops difficult, and the market was a four-hour walk away. Oxfam Unwrapped donkeys are enabling women to earn their own living with dignity and hope.

Kaneez's story >

An Oxfam Unwrapped donkey and cart gave Kaneez's family independence they had never known before. Her husband used to be a day labourer and there were days when he could not find work. Then Kaneez was selected to receive a donkey and cart from Oxfam Unwrapped. She says: "Now we are earning more because with the donkey cart, my husband is getting more and more work." Kaneez's donkey cart is in demand in the village for taking people to the river, and to help people transport crops, fodder and belongings. The family is also selling milk from their animals in the market. "When we did not have this cart, selling milk was not an option for us," says Kaneez. "Our daily income is now 250 rupees a day, which is a lot for us."

Kulsoom's story

Kulsoom's husband, Riaz, also used to be a daily wage labourer, which meant that the family's the income was infrequent. "It was harsh and difficult living," says Kulsoom. "His days without work would always lead to arguments at home." When Kulsoom received a donkey and cart it brought the family more stability: "Now as a family we are sure about the income and it has affected us positively."