The program is vastly under-resourced; OPMT as an organisation is reliant on donations from supporters, particularly international supporters. However even if OPMT received sufficient funds it is difficult to obtain resources in East Timor as there are still no suppliers of sewing or needlecraft materials.
For this reason OPMT sought small donations of sewing and needlecraft materials from supporters in Canberra during December 2000.
English:
OPMT:
The Popular Organisation of East Timorese Women / Organizacao Popular de
Mulher Timor Updated Mar 17
Women's Issues
OPMT is a registered East
Timorese non-government organization (ETNGO)
Short History: OPMT (FRETILIN's
women's organisation) emerged in 1975, to promote the emancipation of women
in all aspects of life, appropriate to their evolving role in East Timor.
As an East Timorese women's organisation OPMT has been dealing with the
impact of Indonesian rule that has dominated their lives for the past 25
years culminating in the violence around the UN sponsored Popular Consultations
in 1999. It is these women who have been dealing with those who have been
severely psychologically and/or physically traumatised. They have been
helping address the needs of women who are the main carers of children
(many of whom are orphans), the injured, sick and the elderly.
Current situation and primary needs:
OPMT emerged from their clandestine existence at the FRETILIN Conference
in Dili in May 2000. OPMT's current needs include the general need for
social action such as giving assistance to those who need it.
Current Activities: Social action
(periodic). Also: OPMT Sewing Program in Timor Loro Sa'e & OPMT
English Language Program
Plans: OPMT plans to undertake
activities in three districts. OPMT has a vision for how the new country
can support the people's needs.