In her community, Theresa, a dedicated caterer and married mother of three, faced a devastating challenge. She skillfully crafted cakes and pastries, but when her husband fell seriously ill with a stroke, losing his job, their family was plunged into extreme hardship. Through the vital support of the ECEWSSPEED project, Theresa’s life and that of her family have been wonderfully transformed. Recognizing the dire situation, Theresa’s case worker from the ECEWS-SPEED project conducted a thorough assessment. The Household Economic and Vulnerability Assessment (HEVA) revealed a stark reality: the family lacked even enough food for the children. A care plan was immediately put in place to strengthen Theresa’s income-generating activities before their situation worsened. When the opportunity for Household Economic Strengthening (HES) support arose, Theresa’s resilience was rewarded. After attending crucial financial literacy training, she received a substantial boost to her business. This initial investment in essential supplies — including flour, butter, sugar, and eggs — wasn’t just provisions; it was a lifeline. The impact was immediate and profound. During monitoring visits, it was confirmed that her business was not just revived but thriving. Theresa could now consistently meet demanding customer orders for her cakes, making a significant daily profit. Her entrepreneurial spirit soared; she began buying live fowl, preparing and selling them for an additional healthy gain per bird. Critically, she could now consistently pay her children’s school fees, and her husband’s health was visibly improving as she could afford his much-needed medication. Her growth continued to be impressive. She diversified her offerings, venturing into plantain sales, adding further profit. She also invested in dry ponmo (cow skin) and fresh fish in substantial quantities, generating significant gains from their resale. To support her booming baking business, she even acquired additional cooking gas capacity.
Today, Theresa’s business boasts substantial worth, generating a considerable average profit each month. She no longer stresses about accessing treatment, paying school fees, or meeting her family’s daily needs. The transformation in her husband’s health is equally remarkable; according to Theresa, “the husband can stand on his feet and can freely walk.” Beyond economic success, Theresa’s health journey mirrors her business triumph. She is virally suppressed, and the HIV-exposed infant (HEI) in her household tested negative after the last Dried Blood Spot (DBS) test. An active member of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) Moferere, she has diligently built up her savings, a testament to her newfound financial stability and community engagement. Theresa’s story is a powerful testament to how targeted support and individual determination can turn adversity into a flourishing success, bringing health, stability, and dignity back to a family.
