It all began with a simple yet heartbreaking realization. In Makinsk, Kazakhstan, Tatiana and Maria, two sick single mothers, are worn out by a life of hardship.

Tatiana lived under an asbestos roof that leaked every time it rained. She placed buckets in her kitchen to catch the water. Maria, on the other hand, suffered from asthma and had no running water. Every bucket she had to carry was a struggle.
Sr. Halina decided to take action. She proposed the “Safe roof and pure water” project to repair Tatiana’s roof and ensure access to clean water for Maria.

For Tatiana, the work began with the removal of the asbestos roof, which was hazardous to health. Part of the wooden roof frame was replaced, and then a metal roof was installed, along with gutters. Next, her kitchen—which had been the room most affected by leaks—was completely renovated: new windows, new floor tiles, rewired electrical system, repaired ceiling, wallpapered walls, and new kitchen cabinets.

For Maria, the team drilled a well down to a depth of 40 meters, where the water is clean. The water was treated and then connected directly to her home. A septic tank and a drain were also installed.

Every step of the process was carried out with local craftsmen using materials purchased locally.

Tatiana shares, deeply moved: “For 21 years, water dripped on my head. My husband left, and I was left alone with my two daughters, debts, and a salary barely enough to eat. Thanks to you, I have a new roof, a beautiful kitchen, and I can drink my tea without fear. I never would have imagined this was possible!”

The project was not without its challenges.
At Maria’s site, at a depth of 20 to 30 meters, clay appeared in the newly drawn water. The workers had to be called back to fix the problem.

“Unfortunately, one of them was hospitalized with a serious leg injury. The work fell behind schedule, and temperatures dropped below freezing. But thanks to everyone’s perseverance, the drilling was completed, and the water is now perfectly pure.” Sr. Halina

What’s more, the initial budget didn’t cover everything. The parish, the former parish priest—who is now in Poland—and even Tatiana’s son, who lives 1,000 km away, all pitched in. A true chain of solidarity!

“Today, Tatiana and Maria no longer live in fear of falling water or an overly heavy bucket. Thanks to you, they have found a dignified, warm, and safe home. And they say it with equal conviction: ‘Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.’”  Sr Halina

And Sister Halina continues on her way: she is already looking for other forgotten families, other roofs to repair, other water sources to bring to life…