Leticia’s Family, Nigeria (FVP Story 2021. )
Leticia lives in Sitio Bartag. She is neighbors with the Mira family. She has always admired them and their dedication to serving the community. Mother, Ah-na, is the GPW-Philippines Country Coordinator.
Last year, at the height of COVID19 lockdowns, the Mira family began sharing rice with neighbors. Leticia’s family and the Mira family became close, supporting each other in different ways during the challenges of the pandemic. Leticia told herself she wanted her family to be like them, a family serving other families. “The inspiration that they spread by simply sharing what they have to the people surrounding them is contagious,” shared Leticia.
Recently Leticia became secretary of the local Community Center. Leticia has brought her new leadership to support the Mira family’s ongoing efforts to serve their community. In May, she helped serve over 260 families: 110 families from Sitio Barangay and 150 from other communities.
To prepare the distribution, Leticia reached out to indigent families in her community. Her heart melted as she wrote down the names of every member who really needed help. She realized why the Mira family continued to serve so desperately. Most of the beneficiaries lost their job because of the closure of businesses and restrictions put into place to prevent the spread of the virus.
Leticia did not expect anything in return for her service to help the families in need. She was wrong! As she gave and showed kindness, she recieved love and hope in return. She is grateful for the experience and for the unexpected return.