Judith’s Story

Judith, a hardworking mother of four, was doing her best to provide for her family, but life was far from easy. Working as a casual house helper meant her income was unpredictable, and many days she struggled to meet her family’s most basic needs. Food insecurity and unpaid school fees often left her overwhelmed, while the constant worry about how to make ends meet took a toll on her mental health.

Her struggles became even more visible when two of her children, who were in school, were frequently sent home because of unpaid fees and levies. The disruptions in their education deeply worried her, but she felt powerless to change the situation. It was through this school that Judith was identified for support.

When Judith was brought to Macheo’s attention, she first received a cash transfer, which immediately helped her cover food and household needs. This support gave her some relief from daily worries and restored her ability to plan ahead for her children’s wellbeing. Importantly, it also helped keep her children in school, where they could learn without the constant interruptions of being sent home.

Alongside this, Judith was supported through Macheo’s Family Economic Empowerment program with funds to start a small business selling chips and bhajia. For her, this opportunity was more than financial aid. It was a chance to build something of her own and create a steady income for her family.

With determination and hard work, Judith grew her food business into a reliable source of income. She is now able to feed her family consistently, pay for her children’s education, and improve their living conditions. The stability has given her children the chance to thrive, and the whole family feels happier and more secure.

Looking back, Judith is filled with gratitude. “If it weren’t for Macheo, I wouldn’t be here,” she shares. But the real story is one of her resilience and commitment, supported by timely assistance that opened a new path forward. Judith’s journey shows how, with the right support and her own determination, a mother can turn a struggling household into one filled with hope and stability.