In January in Rwanda, we met with Steven and Providance to tell them that, thanks to the incredible support of the African Road community, their business had been funded! Together, we raised over $20,000 to launch a sustainable business to support this remarkable family and the community they serve.
For almost 20 years, Providance and her husband, Pastor Steven Turikunkiko, have offered street orphans a place in their family. They feed them, care for their medical needs, and do their best to provide quality education for them. As each child grows up and goes on to an independent life, they will always be part of the family and have a place to call home.
Providance and baby Joel, newest addition to the Turikunkiko family
Two years ago, thanks to friends of African Road, we were able to purchase a home for this dedicated family! It is a safe, secure and adequate house for such a large family. They no longer struggle with high rent, the threat of eviction, and poor living conditions. And Steven and Providance will continue to have room in their home and hearts for more orphaned children at the House of Bright Hope.
Yay for the House of Bright Hope!
In 2012, Providance started a butcher business. The goal of the business was to support her family and their remarkable work with a steady source of income. Her butchery was a huge success — however, two years later, the regulations of the meat industry in Rwanda changed, and the business had to shut down. Although it was devastating to lose the butchery, Providance felt ready to take on the challenge of establishing a new, bigger business.
And so, the idea for a larger store to sell general goods was born! With funding from the African Road circle of friends, this dream has become a reality. Right now, Providance and Steven are working with David Clemy, African Road VICOBA leader, to set up their financial systems and build tracking systems. These are exciting, tangible steps to opening the business!
Steven and Providance at Togetherness Cooperative
Providance’s business will provide a sustainable source of income not only for her family, but for the entire community of orphans, genocide survivors, and women’s cooperatives they serve.
We are thrilled for Providance and Steven! We can’t wait to see what this incredible couple will accomplish next.