For years, Tam shouldered the immense responsibility of supporting her family alone. Neither she nor her husband received formal education. Both their son and daughter were born with cognitive disabilities, putting more strain on Tam and her husband. With few opportunities to earn a living wage, Tam’s family fell deeper into poverty and violence.
Tam faced weekly episodes of severe physical and verbal abuse from her husband. Though many in her community urged her to leave, she could not face the thought of abandoning her vulnerable children.
She stayed captive in the cycle of violence.
When their daughter became pregnant after being sexually assaulted in the fields near their home, Tam became her granddaughter’s caregiver.
Tam saw a glimmer of hope and possibility when she was accepted into Hagar’s program. She received counselling and business training. And then, with a small business loan, Tam bought cinnamon seedlings and fertilizer. After her first successful crop, she was able to save money and invest in her granddaughter’s education. Through ongoing capacity-building through Hagar, Tam grew her entrepreneurial and relationship skills.
As Tam and her husband participated in the program, his tirades slowly ceased, and their family life grew more peaceful.
Today, Tam’s family is financially stable and at peace. Because of the longterm support and care she received, Tam is resilient and hopeful for the future. She is able to send her granddaughter to school, breaking the cycle of poverty and abuse.
