Mamata's name means "caring" in her native language. Her name is also a reflection of her true character. Mamta was not only caring to her family, but also to those around her in the community. She grew up in the picturesque village of Dukuchhap, nestled among the rolling hills of Nepal. But not all was as picturesque as it seemed.
Mamata and her husband were blessed with two beautiful children, a boy and a girl. Out of necessity, they all lived with Mamta's parents. Poverty and financial difficulties had prevented their dream of having their own home becoming a reality. It was a constant challenge to try to meet the basic needs of their family.
But Mamata was a fighter! She never allowed despair to seep into her heart. Every morning, she would rise with the sun and, with unwavering determination, set out to conquer the challenges that life would throw her way. Her spirit was unbreakable, and she believed that as long as there was life, there was hope.
Despite the uphill battles, Mamata and her husband toiled tirelessly to support their family. They worked for others in their fields to try to provide the essentials their children needed but still struggled to make ends meet. Education was a dream that seemed too distant for her children, but Mamata's spirit knew no bounds, and she held onto it tightly.
Her greatest dream was to have a home of their own. A place where they could live without the heavy burden of financial woes pressing down on their shoulders.
And then, one day, Mamta and her family were unexpectedly blessed to be invited into a BSF family strengthening program in Dukuchhap. Part of the program's goal is to help families reach financial sustainability. Mamta and her husband's dream to use their agricultural skills to have their own farm soon become a reality and they were assisted to set up a tomato and chili open greenhouse farm (locally known as tunnel farming).
They took the opportunity with both hands and their hard work and resilience paid off. It wasn't long before their crops were ripe for harvest. Their vibrant, green plants flourished, and the juicy red tomatoes and fiery red chilies they harvested fetched a good price in the market. Their income had doubled!
With their newfound income, Mamata and her husband were finally able to provide their children with the education they deserved. They watched proudly as their little ones learned to read and write, knowing that their education was a key to a brighter future.
But Mamata's dream didn't stop there. She saved diligently, and soon had enough funds to build a small house of their own. It wasn't a grand mansion, but it was a symbol of their perseverance and a testament to their unwavering spirit.
With a radiant smile, Mamata proudly declared, "I've managed to save enough money to build our very own small house and educate my children. This wouldn't have been possible without being a part of the Building Strong Families Program. Thank you all so much for helping to transform my family."
Also, please see Mamta's video and a memorable visit for Tim (BSF Director) and the team...
(Original Author: Bibek Yonjan - BSF Program Coordinator in Dukuchhap, Nepal)
BSF is a partner for project J1079 & J1102 with Australian NGO, Global Development Group (ABN 57 102 400 993). Donations to BSF through Global Development Group are tax deductible in Australia, NZ, and the USA.