Elly
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Elly is an 18-year old girl living in Moshi, Tanzania. Her family always thought of her as a burden because of her intellectual disabilities. When her family went to work each day, Elly was left unattended and roamed about the village. Concerned for her safety, the family decided to tether Elly with a metal chain within their yard. Unfortunately, this left her exposed to weather and other dangers. Elly's home lies next to a railroad track, accessed by dirt roads, and the mere task of getting water involves a ten-minute walk to the nearest well.
Last spring, staff from the Building a Caring Community (BCC) project heard about Elly's situation and paid a visit. With guidance from project staff, it was arranged for Elly to attend the Pasua Parish Center. Elly is learning how to tend a garden, take care of her personal needs, and is also learning how to read. While at the Center, she receives targeted therapies, enjoys nourishing meals, and is thriving within a safe environment. The BCC staff also provide in-home supports for the family. These services have greatly enhanced the family's quality of life. In particular, the time Elly spends at the Center eases her mother's stress and worries which allows her to focus on her work and their economic situation.
Elly is now safe and flourishing; her life is filled with opportunities that she might have never had without the support of the BCC Project.
