Meet Threads and Light – a widows group in Nigeria we have partnered with at Rafiki!

Here is their story:

Widows come to us in a variety of ways, sometimes through referrals by their churches, others by word of mouth, while some are sent by other ministries. When widows join our program, they are taught sewing through craft making. Through the sale of these crafts, the ministry supports itself and pays the widows. Once they are proficient, the widows are paired with a tailor to learn dressmaking.

When the widows graduate from our program, they are each given a sewing machine. We also encourage and help the ladies to save their money to start their own businesses. The program lasts for a year but is adapted to the need of the individual. The women also have the option of remaining with us as tailors to hone their skills.

We strive to care for our widows by providing a hot meal each day for those who come to the center. If one of the women or their children falls ill, we provide funds for their hospital and medical bills when needed. However, the greatest need for most of these women is school fees for their children. We have helped many children get through school, some for eight years or more. These are children who would otherwise have a bleak future.

We not only seek to care for them physically but also spiritually and mentally. The women receive Bible teaching and discipleship and especially enjoy it when a teacher visits from overseas to do intensive training. Some widows have received little schooling, so we help them with literacy and numeracy. All the widows are given training in life skills such as parenting, basic health practices, and small business skills.