Thanks to the ‘Crying Children’ project in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a widowed woman and her 5 children have regained a decent life and a taste for life. The sudden death of the father of the family had plunged them all into immense grief and poverty.

First a big scare... then some very good news from the family!

A new misfortune almost befell the family: Tiruwork, the mother, fell ill and had to visit the doctor several times. The costs were covered thanks to the funds raised, which were barely received by the sisters' community.

"But the children were very scared: they thought she would go to hospital. When they saw that she was better, they started behaving normally again: playing, laughing, mixing with the other children at school..." Sr Aster *

The sisters accompanying Tiruwork paid the sum collected, which was intended to cover the family's needs for 1 year, in several instalments.

With the first instalment, Tiruwork paid the school fees and school supplies for the year that was coming to an end for the 5 children. She also spent money on food and clothing. Some of her relatives helped her pay the rent on her house and pay for transport.

With the second instalment, Tiruwork bravely began a candle-making project: she bought the machine, the wax and all the necessary materials. Her brother came to teach her how to use the machine and make candles. And she's making good progress!

"She told me that she earns a good living from candle production and that she thought this project would be viable for her children, to feed them properly and send them to school. She has already saved around 196 euros.
I'm sure that since she'll have fewer expenses next year, she'll have more income and won't have to depend on outside help - she'll be back on her feet!" Sr Aster

Tiruwork has already been able to pay the enrolment and school fees for the next school year, which starts in September.

"The children are doing well. The two eldest have moved up to fourth grade. The next two children have finished nursery school and in September they will be in first grade. The youngest started school this year. Their nutritional status has improved: they are now eating well and sufficiently to allow them to grow." Sr Aster

The project will end at the end of the year with a final payment for living expenses. Tiruwork may buy a second machine and more materials to make different types of candles. She can now rest assured that she has an income.

"On behalf of Tiruwork and its children, I would like to say a big thank you to you and to all those who helped give hope to this family. May God bless you abundantly and reward each of you in the way he knows best.
Thank you very much." Sr Aster

With them, thanks to you!

*Sr Tigist was the project bearer, she died suddenly in January 2024.
It was very close to her heart.
Sr Tigist was infinitely grateful to the donors and described her mission as a Daughter of Charity as follows: "My role in the community is to develop the spirit of needy children, to touch their hearts and transform their lives."

"Before Sr Tigist ascended to heaven, this is the miracle she performed for my family." Tiruwork