Afrah

 

Background: Afrah is a 42-year-old widow with three school-age children. Her husband passed away two years ago, leaving her as the sole provider for the family. Their primary source of income is her husband’s pension. They live in a section of her husband’s family home, which is divided into different sections for various family members. Afrah used to make and sell pastries before her husband’s death. One of her children, a 12-year-old, has autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and requires regular medication.  

  • Waseela's Donation: $1223.75 CAD
  • Monthly Allowance: 3 Months
  • Impact: Purchase of essential equipment and materials to start a pastry-making small business

Donations and Impact: In August 2023, a donation was made to cover the purchase and installation costs of a water pump for Afrah’s family. Additionally, Afrah received 41,000 Yemeni Rials from the donation. The volunteer who assisted Afrah inquired about the potential for long-term support. Afrah expressed her willingness to start a small business if given the necessary support. In the same month, the board decided to support Afrah in starting a new business to provide a steady source of income. A donation of $760 CAD was sent to purchase materials and equipment for making and selling pastries. 

In September 2023, Afrah started receiving the first of three monthly allowances from Waseela. She expressed immense relief, as the previous burden of providing for her family had been challenging. With the donations, Afrah has dedicated herself to daily work, utilizing her culinary skills to meet demand and secure private orders. She collaborated with a neighbor who operates a food stand, allowing her to sell her dishes and earn a modest share of the profits. Afrah wisely reinvests a portion of her earnings to ensure a consistent supply of essential materials, furthering her entrepreneurial journey and positively impacting her life and her family’s well-being.