Razia (not her real name) is 18 years old and lived on the garbage dump she was born on with her 3 children aged 4 years, 2 years and newborn babe.

The baby was born in March, and this is when Razia's problems began. Her partner began (or maybe continued) to beat her badly. The two older children would run away and hide until the beating was over. Razia would sometimes escape too but she never had anywhere to escape to long term. The final straw came when her partner allegedly threw the baby onto the garbage and Razia knew she had to do something.

We knew Razia from our work on the garbage site with the women and children there. Her eldest child was in fact now attending school, the fees paid for by our charity. We met Razia one night and managed to find a room where she could stay and be safe. Razia had nothing but a few clothes and belongings. We provided a mattress and mosquito net for that first night.

Razia needs to make this room into a home for herself and her children. She needs to be able to find ways to make money to support them. Gap Kenya is providing for their daily needs, and has taken the eldest child to a local school, providing her with a uniform and paying the necessary fees. But we cannot continue to provide for Razia permanently. Which is why we are asking for your help. With the money you provide, we will help Razia begin a small business selling 2nd hand clothes. The money will enable her to rent a stall and buy a bundle of clothes which she can wash, iron and then sell.

With your help, Razia's life can be changed forever. From living on a garbage dump, abused by the father of her children, she can become an independent woman who is able to make a loving home for her children. So we are asking. Please will you help? Thank you.