Paula’s Story

Paula is a mother of four. While two of her children are now grown-ups, she currently lives with her younger daughters, Hope and Patra. Hope, who is in secondary school, and Patra, in Grade 8, had been attending school inconsistently due to frequent fee arrears. The family’s situation worsened when Paula’s husband became seriously ill and was hospitalized for a long period, leaving her as the sole provider.

With limited income, Paula struggled to meet the family’s basic needs. They lived in a cramped room with only one mattress, forcing the children to sleep on an old sofa. School fees were often out of reach, and Patra regularly missed school meals because there was no food at home and no money to pay for lunch. The pressure took a toll on Paula’s health, and Hope also developed H. pylori while in school and required medical care.

Our partner charity, Macheo stepped in and provided both Patra and her mother with treatment and medication through the health intervention program. Paula was also supported to start a small business through the family economic empowerment program, which is now running well. She is able to support her daughters and her two grandchildren, who are also under her care after their mother lost her job.

Patra’s school fees were fully covered through the junior secondary school support program, and she now enjoys daily meals through the school feeding initiative. The family also received a mattress through the Improved Physical Living Conditions program, allowing everyone to sleep more comfortably.

With a beaming smile, Paula shared, “Through the help I got from Macheo, I also feel the urge to help others in the community as a way of giving back.” Her story is one of strength, renewal, and the ripple effect of kindness in action.