This year, 2024, we experienced a heartbreaking loss with the passing of Wavinya just before Christmas. She leaves behind two young children. Despite tireless efforts to help her escape trafficking and exploitation, her health was severely compromised by a long history of abuse and illness. We remember her strength and the love she had for her children.
We met Wavinya, who is a neighbor to Jennifer in 2022. Her story was one of great tragedy and resilience. She was the last wife of an elderly man. She has two young children with him. Like many women from poor families, she is more of a surrogate than a wife.
Wavinya had serious physical handicaps that impacted her life. She was hearing impaired and used her own form of sign language which was quite expressive.
Jennifer has known her for years and has taken the time to learn to communicate with her friend better than anyone else in their community.
Through Foothold’s support Wavinya’s children have been able to stay in school and she herself has received medical care, but her needs have been extensive. Jennifer has kept an eye on her & updated us when she had a need we could provide.
Wavinya has been a kind and loyal friend and a warm and protective mother. Her family situation was challenging, and we expected her to have complications as her older husband’s health was also declining.
If you would like to find out how to support women like her and help to prevent gender-based violence and trafficking, please contact us. You can also donate directly for our efforts to build a rescue center in her honor.
You can click the DONATE link below.
