How your Will can change lives

When you’re a supporter of Oxfam, you’re part of a global community of millions of people who believe that a better world is possible.

Many people find that they’re able to give more generously to Oxfam through their Will than they ever could during their lifetime. In fact, you might be surprised to hear what a small percentage of your estate can achieve.

Breaking the cycle of poverty with education

“I truly believe that leaving a gift in your Will to Oxfam is one of the best investments you can make to help create a world without the injustice and unnecessary suffering of poverty. And it’s your chance to create a world you’d want the young people of tomorrow to grow up in.” Peter Singer, Philosopher, Ethicist, Oxfam Supporter.

Despite significant progress in Bangladesh over the past two decades, 20% of the rural population and 15% of people living in urban areas still don’t have access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

However, young women like Onima (pictured above) — who grew up in a slum in Mymensingh — are working to change those statistics.

At just 15 years old, Onima conducts hygiene promotion classes with adolescent girls in her community, teaching them the importance of washing hands before eating, maintaining proper menstrual hygiene, and other key health messages.

These essential skills save precious lives and keep the community healthy — which means better school attendance, more income for basic essentials and a real chance to break a continuing cycle of poverty.

“When I was younger, I attended sessions like these myself,” Onima said. “That’s my inspiration: they taught me a lot and told me to share what I know. I’m exploring my potential. Maybe others have strong potential too but because of lack of resources they don’t reach their potential.”

Typically, a small percentage of a person’s Will can help to build about 25 public toilet blocks and public baths for women and girls like Onima.