The story of Ridho, a 9-year-old boy at risk of dropping out of school, highlights the struggles of a mother facing sudden life challenges. Ridho's father, who worked as an employee, passed away suddenly, leaving the family in shock and uncertainty. This tragic event forced Ridho’s mother, a homemaker, to quickly find a way to support her three children.

Amidst her worries and confusion, Ridho’s mother sought advice from family and neighbors. Many suggested that opening a small grocery shop would be a suitable way to meet the family’s financial needs. Gugah Nurani Indonesia (GNI), a social organization that has supported Ridho’s family through its child sponsorship program, stepped in to offer condolences and inquire about the business plan she intended to pursue.

With determination, Ridho’s mother expressed her intent to open a grocery shop. GNI’s child sponsorship program provides assistance to the immediate family of a sponsored child when a parent or primary breadwinner passes away. In such cases, GNI offers business startup support worth Rp. 1,000,000 in the form of goods rather than cash. With this assistance, Ridho’s mother was able to start her grocery business. In addition to the financial support, GNI also helped her manage and effectively use the profits from the business.























 
After two years, Ridho’s mother’s grocery business began to show significant progress. She enlisted the help of family members to build a kiosk in front of their house, making it more visible to the community in Limomiri hamlet, Bulu Cina village. The support from GNI, family, and neighbors further motivated her to expand her grocery business.

Thanks to the programs implemented by GNI, Ridho has been able to continue his education and pursue his dream of becoming a soldier. Moreover, the grocery business run by his mother has helped meet Ridho’s nutritional needs during his growth years. The success of her grocery business has also positively impacted the family’s overall well-being.

The story of Ridho’s mother and her family is an inspiring example of how perseverance and support can transform lives. Through GNI’s assistance and her grocery business, not only have the family’s economic needs been met, but Ridho’s education and health have also been safeguarded.

GNI’s child sponsorship program has offered hope and opportunities to families facing economic and social challenges. In Ridho’s case, the financial assistance and business support provided by GNI have paved the way for positive change in their lives. Through the perseverance and hard work of Ridho’s mother, a brighter future has opened up for Ridho and his siblings. They have faced their challenges with determination and found ways to overcome the limitations they faced.

May Ridho’s and his mother’s story inspire others to never give up in the face of life’s obstacles and to always offer support in achieving positive change.

Written by: Dahliana Simanullang (CDF Medan Deli Serdang CDP)
Edited by: FD Team