Miriam’s (Fantastic) Transformation in Egypt
Mariam Mikhail is a 39-year-old widow who lives in Sharona with her two young children, Maged and Marina. Mariam’s husband was a day laborer who died suddenly in 2019. He left no money or assets by which Mariam and her children could use for sustenance.
Furthermore, Mariam did not have a job or any means of earning a living. Nor was any relative able to aid them financially – even though many lived nearby. In fact, Mariam quickly became a burden and she rapidly reached a point with no or little food and certainly had no access to medical care. What little she received was from people who had pity on the family. Thus, the family started to suffer from malnutrition, health problems & displayed psychological symptoms. The children roamed the streets and did not attend school because Mariam could not pay the tuition. She had no cooking appliances and owned some meager furniture. And young Maged suffered from a kidney stone.
Miriam was in dire need of assistance
Finding Freedom through Friendship, Inc (FFF) met Mariam and her family in August 2019. She was depressed, anxious and in dire need of assistance. Mariam was helping a farmer grind corn for pittance a day. After several discussions with Mariam, it was determined that a grain grinder would be a successful micro business for the family. In rural villages, peasants own livestock and poultry. Livestock are fed alfalfa and grains, especially corn. And the main stable for poultry is corn. The corn is husked, grinded and supplements added. It is then packaged in sacks and sold by the pound. Thus, certifying a viable market for animal feed.
In December 2019, FFF bought Mariam an electric feed mill & grinder for 8000 EGP ($450). The feed mill was ideal to yield high quality feed to sell to livestock owners. In addition, FFF paid for medical care for the children and delivered a gas oven to Mariam.
The high-quality feed that Mariam sells is bought by livestock owners. Local villagers also request for other types of grains to be ground. Her reputation and integrity rapidly earned her respect in the community.
The family has regained their dignity
Today, Mariam earns an income to afford food and medical care. The children are back to good health and attend school. Moreover, the family have regained their dignity and confidence.
The small investment of a corn mill was a successful business for Mariam by guaranteeing an economically stable future. Furthermore, Mariam has become a positive contributor to society.
The dedicated FFF board are devoted to planting seeds of hope, so individuals may grow into something magnificent. Miriam is an example of a seed that has grown into a beautiful flower.
We realize economically empowered women effectively influence their life, their family and their community for positive social changes. We aim to inspire. empower and sustain – Hope for women.