Standing alongside families in need

Although only 18, Celina already carries a heavy burden of responsibility as both her parents are HIV positive. As well as nursing them, she is also bringing up her brother, sister and son in a drought-stricken region of Mozambique [Annie Bungeroth]

HIV volunteers offer a vital lifeline to thousands of families in remote rural areas of Mozambique – giving both practical and emotional support to those facing stigma and discrimination

Although she is only 18, Celina already carries a heavy burden of responsibility as both her father and her mother are HIV positive.

As well as nursing her sick parents, Celina is also bringing up her brother, sister and son in a drought-stricken region of Mozambique.

When the village pump stops working, she has to walk for three hours to fetch water. She spends her days cooking, washing and collecting firewood.

Standing alongside

Thankfully Celina does not have to shoulder this burden alone. Through our local partner CEDES, CAFOD supports a network of HIV activists who volunteer to stand alongside families in need.

“When our activist, Amelia, comes here she helps me cook, do the housework and fetch water,” says Celina. “Without her help, I would have to look after the family all on my own.”

“This has made a big difference to my parents’ life. Even though she is here to support my parents, her presence supports me. It means I have more time to look after the children.

Celina went to school up to grade six, but then had to stop because she had a baby. Although she hasn’t been able to go back since, she hopes to be able to do evening classes one day.

”It is hard to be a single mother because I must provide everything for my baby. And because my parents are sick, I must look after their children as well.

“One day I would like to return to studying and, if I had the opportunity I would like to go and see other lands.

“We are so glad for the help that you give us. Please find it in your hearts to keep supporting us because we need as much help as we can get.”

Community volunteers such as Amelia offer a vital lifeline to thousands of families – giving both practical and emotional support at a time when many families face stigma and discrimination.

Amelia says: “I believe this was a call from God to assist people. That’s why I don’t see my role as an activist as hard work.

“I do it on a voluntary basis and I do it from the bottom of my heart. In church I learn to love my neighbour as much as I love myself and my own family.

“I know that the family appreciates this help. When I arrive they smile and look happy to see me and when I leave they thank me and say how much I’ve helped them.

“I pray to God that CAFOD supporters can continue their good work in this village. With your support, our lives are slowly getting better. Thank you.”

take action for Fast Day

Harvest Fast Day: October 3

All you need to know about this year's Fast Day - plus free downloadable materials to help you support it - and stand in solidarity with the poor

Give to Fast Day

When you give this Fast Day, you help CAFOD train more HIV activists, who volunteer their own time to stand alongside families struggling to cope with the impact of HIV and AIDS