In the Uyo region of Nigeria, people with mental health issues often live in the shadows: marginalized, stigmatized, isolated, without resources, and deprived of appropriate support.
Since 1986, the Daughters of Charity have been at their side at the Providence Home for the Mentally Destitute Women, a haven where women and their children find care, protection, and recognition.

However, medicines are very expensive and inflation remains high in Nigeria. Against this backdrop, the "From the wings up" project aimed to set up a poultry farm as a source of income, protein, training and employment opportunities.

A multi-stage project

A market study was first conducted to assess the cost of the materials needed to build the chicken coop. Workers were then hired and construction began under the supervision of an expert. The project also received a blessing from the parish priest.

The chicken coop was equipped with electricity and a water supply. Once the facilities were ready, accessories, feed, and chicks were purchased. The farm started with 200 broiler chickens (raised for meat) and 100 laying hens. The project received help from the center's residents and staff, as well as technical advice from a veterinarian and a poultry supplier.

The main impact observed concerns the residents' commitment: working with the animals gives them a sense of usefulness, confidence, and responsibility. The new chicken coop, which is spacious and well organized, also attracts attention and arouses interest among people around the center. 

The project benefits more than 30 people, including 22 residents, 8 staff members, and 8 sisters from the community.

Faced challenges

The main problem was the inflation in Nigeria, which significantly increased the cost of materials and animals. In one week, the budget lost much of its purchasing power, forcing officials to reduce the number of poultry planned:  350 broiler chickens and 150 laying hens initially planned, reduced to 200 broiler chickens and 100 laying hens.
Other logistical difficulties, such as transporting equipment, were also encountered but were overcome. 

All funds received were used in accordance with the initial project. However, the project is not yet financially self-sufficient. Additional funding is needed to purchase more poultry, ensure future feed purchases, and finish paying the workers.

“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to all the donors who have helped give meaning to the lives of these women who have been cast aside by society. We are deeply grateful.” Sr ElmaMary

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