In the New Bolori community of Maiduguri, Kaltume Abubakar’s life has been transformed through Neem Foundation’s Mind Care Program funded by McArthur Foundation. As an orphan grappling with loneliness and financial struggles, Kaltume found solace and support in the program’s offerings.

“My name is Kaltume Abubakar, and I live in the New Bolori Community,” she begins. Reflecting on her recent participation, Kaltume shares, “I last attended the program last Monday, and I am very happy with the way they educated us.”

The Mind Care Program has been particularly impactful for Kaltume. “I am an orphan, and the loneliness made me withdraw from social interactions because I felt poor and looked down upon. The program helped me understand that I was not alone in my emotional struggles. I now see that I can embrace my role as a house help and support my family with my earnings,” she says.

The program’s lessons have also influenced how Kaltume raises her children. “I have advised my children to be loyal, righteous, and cautious about their friendships. I emphasized the importance of respecting elders,” she explains. Despite these positive changes, Kaltume’s children still wish for better educational opportunities, which she is unable to provide.

The impact of the program extends deeply into Kaltume’s personal life. “My husband has been ill for about two years, and I once considered leaving him with my parents. But after attending Neem Foundation’s Mind Care sessions seven times, I decided against that plan. His family has started appreciating my efforts, and I realized that running away would not solve anything. I feel as if this program was made just for me.”

Grateful for the support, Kaltume’s message to Neem Foundation is heartfelt. “I am very grateful for their support. Thanks to them, my emotional worries have diminished, and I have once again become part of the community.”