My struggles deepened when my daughter fell seriously ill. After separating from my husband who had horrifically defiled her, I found myself raising my children alone. I adapted to life as a single mother, working tirelessly through casual labor and managing a small but thriving green grocery business to support my family.

However, when my daughter was hospitalized, the medical bills became overwhelming. I borrowed money from the groups I was part of, but it still wasn’t enough to cover the expenses. In desperation, I turned to a shylock and borrowed KES 10,000, which ultimately crippled my business. Without forgetting, I had the added responsibility of caring for my other children, ensuring they had food and school supplies. Eventually, my business failed, leaving me hopeless and without support. Even my parents turned their backs on me, telling me, “Never again call us to explain your reasons for not sending us something to feed you. You’re not our daughter.” Their words broke my heart.

Just when I felt utterly alone, Mathenge, a staff member from the Community Program in Mental Health, recognized my struggles. He recommended me for a project that helped me restart my green grocery business. In addition to this support, I received food assistance to stabilize my household while I worked to recover my business. With determination, my grocery store is now back on its feet.

This experience has taught me the importance of saving, allowing me to create a safety net for the future. I am currently repaying my loan while balancing casual labor in the mornings and running my business in the afternoons. This journey has renewed my hope and provided me with a path to rebuild my life.