Doreen Atim is 63 years old. She came to Kampala after experiencing deep personal tragedy. Rebels killed both her father and her husband. After losing them, she was left alone to survive and did whatever jobs she could find to earn money for food.

One day, she went to Acholi Quarter and noticed some women entering MPI. Curious, she followed them inside. She found groups of people from different cultures dancing together. Rose asked if there was anyone new, and Doreen raised her hand. From that day on, she became part of MPI.

During one of the meetings, Doreen shared her story publicly for the first time. She spoke about her struggles — how her husband was brutally killed and how she herself was injured during the attack. Only a few parts of her husband’s body were left, and those were the only remains she was able to bury.

After hearing her story, Rose called her into the office and began supporting her. MPI started helping not only Doreen but also three of her grandchildren. One day, it was a big surprise for her to receive food support and metal bunk beds with mattresses. Before receiving the beds, when it rained, they would sleep on the wet floor. The beds changed their living conditions significantly.

Doreen now lives with eight grandchildren. Her son was injured at work and is unable to support the family. On top of this, she is currently at risk of eviction because someone bought the land where she is living and wants her to leave.

To survive, she mainly fries cassava and sells it, taking on other small jobs whenever possible. With these earnings, she manages to provide food for her family.

When she is at MPI, she feels happy. It is a place where she can smile again, especially together with the other women. She has been participating in the meetings for three years now, and they bring lightness and relief into her difficult days.