Growing up in Kakamega with five siblings, Dickson experienced the harsh realities of poverty early on. With their parents unable to provide, the siblings worked together on farms, each earning just Ksh 6 (CAD 0.07) per day. Pooling their meager wages, they managed to put food on the table, embodying teamwork born out of necessity. Yet, Olukhalo harbored ambitions that extended beyond survival. Determined to break the cycle of poverty, he pursued an education, completing high school against all odds. With no one to guide or support him, he enrolled in a polytechnic to study masonry. Over three years, he mastered the craft, preparing himself for a career that would demand physical strength and unwavering perseverance. In 1978, Olukhalo began working as a stonemason, earning a humble Ksh 14 per day(CAD 0.16). Despite the grueling nature of his work—bending, lifting, and constructing structures under harsh conditions—he remained dedicated. Over time, his skill and determination allowed him to earn up to Ksh 700 (CAD 8) daily, a significant improvement from his beginnings. However, the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to his livelihood. As construction projects came to a halt, Olukhalo, now 63, found himself unemployed and grappling with an uncertain future. With limited opportunities, he spends his days visiting friends, hoping for assistance while his wife, whom he calls "God-sent," earns a modest Ksh 100 (CAD 1.2) daily through odd jobs like washing clothes and utensils for neighbors. Recognizing his plight, Mama Ibado Charity stepped in to provide essential support. Through their programs, Olukhalo and his family receive food rations and assistance, offering a lifeline during these challenging times. While this support has eased their immediate struggles, the needs of his family remain vast. Your generosity can help lighten their burden further. By contributing to Mama Ibado Charity, you can ensure Olukhalo and his family have access to the resources they need to live with dignity and hope for a better future. Every act of kindness makes a difference—be the change in Olukhalo’s life today.
