Salahuddin’s story is one of spirit, hope, and the transformative power of an orphan care sponsorship. Born into a family led by a hardworking father, Salahuddin’s early years were filled with the love and support of a supportive family. His father, a courageous labourer, was the sole breadwinner, working tirelessly to provide for his wife, Beheriya Fereja, and their two children, Salahuddin and his younger sister, Amira.

Unfortunately, their world turned upside down when Salahuddin was just three years old. His father passed away due to an illness, leaving the family in a vulnerable state.   

Before his father’s passing, the family lived in a modest rental home, paying 3,000 ETB per month. However, after his death, Beheriya found it increasingly difficult to cover the rent and meet other basic needs.

The situation became very bad as the family struggled to secure even two meals a day. The future seemed miserable for Salahuddin, Amira, and their mother, as they faced devastating challenges. 

How an Orphan Care Sponsorship Changes Lives

In July 2015, a shine of hope appeared when Salehuddin’s sponsorship began through Islamic Relief. This sponsorship marked a turning point for the family, bringing immediate and significant changes. With the support, Beheriya could finally provide regular meals for her children, and the stress of daily survival started to simplicity. The sponsorship not only covered essential needs like food but also helped in purchasing educational materials, clothing, shoes, and other necessities for Salahuddin and Amira.  

Despite the ongoing challenges of high inflation and the economic impacts of COVID-19, the sponsorship supports enabled Beheriya to begin participating in labour work alongside her neighbours, generating a small but vital income to bridge the financial gaps. The family’s situation improved gradually, but a more significant change came with the introduction of the new pricing model for sponsorship.  

The Impact of the Updated Orphan Sponsorship Pricing

The increase in sponsorship payments brought a meaningful improvement to the family’s finances. This change motivated Beheriya to explore additional income-generating opportunities. Inspired by the increased support, she began saving a small portion of the funds and invested in a small business selling butter. This undertaking proved to be a game-changer, allowing her to diversify the family’s income sources and achieve a more stable and sustainable livelihood.   

Today, Salahuddin and his family are successful, and their future looks brighter than ever. The new pricing structure not only provided immediate financial relief but also inspired Beheriya to take practical steps toward self-reliance.  

The story of Salahudin and his family is evidence of the thoughtful impact of sponsorship and how, with a little support, lives can be transformed. The new pricing model has empowered them to move beyond simple survival and into a future filled with possibilities. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of community and the transformative power of giving.