A true tale of a courageous single mother beating all odds to give her five children a better future in Somalia.

The challenge

Faced with a devastating drought that wiped out her livestock and threatened their very survival, Nour made a courageous decision that would change their lives forever.

The single mother of five, left behind the arid land of Toosiley district and embarked on a risky journey to Dollow, a place that symbolized hope.

Their last remaining donkey, provided by compassionate neighbours, carried her disabled son and their few remaining possessions, while the rest of the family walked alongside.

The road to Dollow was filled with uncertainty, but Nour's unwavering determination kept them moving forward.

Upon arriving in Dollow, the family was greeted with open arms by a community that understood their struggles all too well. Dollow was a place of sanctuary, offering not just humanitarian aid but also a sense of security and belonging. 

The solution

Nour's lifeline was the World Food Programme's cash assistance program, implemented by World Vision which provided her with a scope card. This card, which included dry and complementary food, sustained her family for months.

With World Vision’s support, she was able to send her daughter to school, recognizing the importance of education as a means to break free from poverty. Her son, who required constant care, found solace in her presence while his sister attended school.

“I currently have a scope card that has lasted for four months. The card is very important it is helping us rebuild our lives. With the card I have enough food for my children.”

The impact

Scope cards give parents a dignified way to provide for their children, allowing them to make financial decisions and purchases based on their immediate household needs. Programs that empower families to buy from and trade with local vendors using cash transfers, scope cards and vouchers help lift and stimulate the economy, ensuring that the entire community benefits. When parents become economically self-reliant, they’ll be on track for a more sustainable future. 

The Global Hunger Response

Conflict and climate change are making it harder for families in Somalia to get sufficient food or find stable livelihoods to support themselves. World Vision is scaling up our work to:

• Deliver urgently needed food
• Provide clean water
• Ensure access to nutrition and health services