Story by Chelsea Aalim, summer intern

In follow-up visits to Nakuru, Shelter Yetu is finding Winnie is exemplifying the true meaning of hard work. She has overcome hardship and is remarkably committed to earning a better life for herself and her family.

Shelter Yetu rescued her son Felix from the streets of Nairobi three years ago and he successfully completed the Shelter’s rehabilitation program. However, when it came time for Felix to return home, Shelter staff was concerned Winnie’s home was not suitable or properly equipped for Felix’s continued progress.

WHERE SHOULD FELIX GO?

Winnie, or “Mama Felix,” struggled to consistently provide three meals a day for her family. They slept on the floor due to a lack of furniture in their home. Rather than find Felix another home or keep in him the Shelter, Yetu invited Winnie to start a business through the Family Empowerment Program, helping her regain control over her situation. This intervention provided a stable environment for Felix while also empowering Winnie to become self-sufficient. By supporting her business endeavors, the Shelter has provided the necessary support to help mother and son remain together.

LAUNCHING A BUSINESS

When Shelter Yetu staff first visited her business, she was making 240 mandazis a day. Mandazis are a Kenyan dessert similar to an American doughnut. With coaching from a Shelter Yetu empowerment officer, her business kept growing, and she now feels accomplished.

Every morning, Winnie wakes up at 4:30 a.m. and sells all her products by 9 p.m. Today, Winnie makes more than 1,000 mandazis daily and takes home around 1,500 shillings. With this income, she can manage

all her responsibilities, including school fees, rent, and three meals a day for her family. With this support Felix has excelled at this second attempt at life. Winnie is very proud of his progress. ”He does great in school and shows no signs of relapse,” she reports.

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

When asked where she sees herself in 5 to 10 years, Winnie plans to grow her business and triple the amount of mandazi she sells. Winnie is now a young entrepreneur who has provided a comfortable life and built an environment that is conducive for learning, growth, and success for herself and her children.

THANK YOU for believing in Shelter Yetu’s mission to empower families as a long-term solution to improving lives like Winnie’s.