In the modest tin-shed house on the banks of the Padma River in Berpara village, Rajshahi, Ripa Khatun, a widow with two children, finds some solace in the Family Card assistance. Since her husband Sayeed Ali tragically drowned while fishing last year, Ripa has been working at a sweet shop for Tk 150 a day to support her family. The Family Card, providing Tk 2,500 monthly, has significantly eased her financial burden, helping cover household expenses, children's education costs, and medical needs.
Ripa's journey has been one of hardship and resilience. After her husband's death, she moved with her son Yamin and daughter Sadika to a tin-shed house on government land. Despite the challenges, including a leaky roof during rains, Ripa is determined to ensure her children's education. Yamin studies in the seventh grade at Bhatapara Hafezia Madrasa, while Sadika is in the fifth grade at Berpara Government Primary School. The Family Card assistance has been a vital support in meeting their educational expenses.
Ripa is not alone in benefiting from the Family Card scheme. Many low-income families in Berpara village have found relief through this monthly assistance. Nila Begum, wife of rickshaw puller Azim Hossain, and Mansura Khatun, wife of rickshaw driver Belal Hossain, both attest to the help the Family Card provides in meeting daily needs. Similarly, Mabia Khatun, whose four-year-old son suffers from a blood disorder requiring frequent medical attention, finds the assistance invaluable.
Paba Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ibnul Abedin explains that the Family Cards were distributed as part of the government's election manifesto. A total of 655 families from three villages—Berpara, Dabirmollapara, and Dargapara—in Ward No. 5 of Haripur Union in Paba have come under the scheme since May. Each family receives Tk 2,500 per month, aimed at supporting marginalized and low-income families with children's education, medical treatment, and daily household expenses.
For Ripa, the dream remains simple yet profound—to see her children continue their education and one day change their lives. The loss of her husband may never be overcome, but the Family Card assistance has given her family some financial strength to face the hardship of everyday life. As she sits in her tin-shed house, the hope for a better future for her children is what keeps her going.
