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Glory, a young widow living in Ighekpe Community, Benin-City, has faced profound challenges since the death of her husband. With three children to care for, including one with special needs, her daily life is a constant battle against poverty and uncertainty. Before receiving support from the Grace Agbonlahor Foundation (GAF), Glory struggled to maintain her small-scale cooked food business, which was her primary source of income.

The Struggles of Daily Life

Following her husband’s passing, Glory found it increasingly difficult to manage her household and sustain her business. The meager earnings from her food sales barely covered the basic needs of her family, leaving little room for purchasing essential ingredients. Many days, she had to make tough decisions, often prioritizing her children’s immediate needs over her business.

Glory’s challenges were compounded by the lack of financial resources. Without sufficient capital to restock her shop, she was unable to offer a diverse menu, which meant losing customers to competitors who could provide a wider range of meals. This cycle of underperformance deepened her financial woes, creating a sense of hopelessness and despair.

Identifying the Need for Support

Recognizing Glory’s plight, GAF organized a needs assessment in the Ighekpe Community. During interviews, it became clear that Glory lacked the essential supplies necessary to run her business effectively. She expressed her desire to improve her situation but felt trapped by her circumstances. The stress of managing her household and business with insufficient resources took a toll on her health and well-being.

A Turning Point

On October 16, 2024, during a visit to commemorate World Food Day, GAF intervened by providing Glory with essential food stocks to revitalize her business. The support included a 10kg bag of rice, 5 liters of groundnut oil, a carton of spaghetti, a carton of tomato paste, and 2 rubbers of white beans. This timely assistance not only replenished her supplies but also renewed her hope and motivation.

Glory expressed profound gratitude for the support she received from GAF, noting how it would significantly alleviate her daily struggles. She now has the means to expand her menu and attract more customers, providing her children with better food security and a brighter future.

Looking Ahead

With the help of GAF, Glory is optimistic about her business’s potential. She has started to plan for the future, envisioning a thriving food enterprise that can support her family and contribute to her community. The intervention by GAF was not just a momentary aid; it marked the beginning of a transformative journey for Glory and her family.

Glory Iboi’s story is a testament to the impact that targeted support can have on individuals facing adversity. With continued support and empowerment, GAF is committed to helping women like Glory achieve stability and success in their lives.