Mariam is 70 years old and lost her husband 31 years ago. Her husband died 5 years ago. She raised six children on her own. All of her children are married now. All, but two sons have moved away. Her sons and their families live in the courtyard with her. This is the courtyard of her late husband’s younger brother. In total, 21 people are living together. For the last six years Mariam has been unable to contribute very much to the family. She suffers from diabetes and high blood pressure which has progressively gotten worse and she is receiving no medical care. Mariam is unhappy because she cannot help her family and feels like a burden when there are so many mouths to feed in this large family. The grain she will receive through sponsorship will greatly help Mariam to feel as if she is contributing. She will also receive monthly visits, pastoral support and medical assistance.