FATUMA HELI PARERA

Born in Isiolo County, Fatuma Heri Perera has spent much of her life navigating hardship with quiet resilience. A mother of two children, she built her life around caring for her family and doing the best she could with the little they had.

For many years, Fatuma lived with her children and husband, relying on whatever work the family could find to survive. Her son, Adan, worked as a construction laborer, taking on any job he could get. But the work was never stable. Some days there would be employment, and other days there would be none. With no consistent income and no extended family to lean on, the household often struggled to meet their basic needs.

Despite the challenges, Fatuma remained committed to keeping her family together. As the years passed, responsibilities grew heavier. The family also cared for Fatuma’s husband, who lived to the remarkable age of 100 before passing away. Supporting an elderly household with limited income placed an enormous burden on the family, and there were times when even food became uncertain.

With few options available, the family continued to endure their circumstances quietly. It was during this difficult period that a concerned neighbor encouraged Adan to visit the offices of Mama Ibado Charity and inquire whether they might be able to help, given the responsibilities he carried caring for elderly family members at home.

Taking the advice to heart, Adan visited the organization accompanied by his mother. During the visit, Fatuma shared the struggles the family had been facing. After assessing their situation, Mama Ibado Charity enrolled her as a beneficiary in their support program. Since then, Fatuma’s life has taken a more hopeful turn. Through the Seniors Feeding Program, she now receives monthly food support, ensuring that her household no longer has to face the constant worry of hunger. The family is able to collect their food every month, bringing a sense of stability and relief that had long been missing from their lives.

Fatuma also now has access to healthcare support. With her health insurance covered, she is able to seek treatment whenever she falls ill without the burden of medical costs. For her son, who has long carried the responsibility of caring for her, this support has brought immense peace of mind.

Today, Fatuma’s family continues to face life’s challenges, but they do so with renewed dignity and support. Her son speaks with deep gratitude for the assistance they have received, describing Mama Ibado Charity as a family that stood by them when they had nowhere else to turn.