MUCEC began in 1985 with efforts to help some of the poorest of Colon’s impoverished inhabitants — the abused women and their children with little or no income. Unlike other programs, MUCEC seeks a permanent solution rather than a temporary fix of the problem via a handout. Thus, MUCEC each woman is treated according to her various levels of need.
Attendance at weekly formation sessions is obligatory, and these meetings deal with relevant themes suggested by the women themselves: mental and physical health, hygiene, family relations, domestic violence, political and human rights issues, as well as monthly Faith and Reality Sessions. Secondly, skill development workshops create both economic possibilities and also a sense of accomplishment previously unknown to most of these oppressed and battered women. Thirdly, skills are implemented in communal production with an emphasis on feminine solidarity. Whether or not they actually “produce” a final product, the women learn to work together and share responsibility. Additionally, related programs provide formation and education for their children.