Facilitating services Protection, Gender-Based Violence Prevention, and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Deprived and Underprivileged Communities

In southwest Bangladesh, particularly in Cox’s Bazar and Bagerhat, marginalized groups face systemic poverty, gender-based violence (GBV), and mental health crises. To combat these, the Vision Bangladesh Health and Education Society (VBHES) launched a holistic initiative integrating social protection, GBV prevention, and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS). The program’s impact is significant: thousands have received life-changing MHPSS, while case management services have drastically reduced GBV recurrence. Beyond immediate relief, VBHES has institutionalized safety through child safeguarding policies and specialized support for street children, including shelter and reintegration. Community-led interventions, such as Growth Monitoring and Promotion (GMP) sessions and SRHR training for local leaders, have shifted cultural norms toward equity. By bridging the gap between health and protection, VBHES has empowered women and children, transforming vulnerable coastal regions into safer, more resilient environments through inclusive, community-driven action.