Impact Story: Judith Ngeresa
My name is Judith Ngeresa from Kenya. I am a Social Scientist by profession and a part time lecturer in the criminology and social work department at Kibabii University. I am a mother of four. I also offer consultancy services in Social Science Research, Food security and Reproductive Health.
In June 2019 I lost my husband in a road accident and this had a negative impact on my life. I almost slid into depression and hopelessness. While still dealing with my grief, I had a freak accident where I broke my ankle in February 2020 and was immobile for more than four months. Things were bleak for me until a friend of mine told me about the Chwele Community Peace and Resource Centre and how they were distributing food to those people affected by COVID 19 and floods. She suggested that I start leaving the house as a way to exercise my then healing ankle as well as keeping myself occupied to avoid sinking into depression. She offered to be giving me a lift to the Centre if I was interested. I accepted the challenge and joined CCRPC in July 2020 as a volunteer, after speaking with Mama Grace whom I found to be warm and receptive despite us not having met face to face yet. This was the beginning of my healing from anguish and a lifeline to pick up the broken pieces of my life. I have found a niche where I put my professional skills to offer mental Health Services especially psychosocial support to substance addicts and adversity stricken clients who are hopeless. Helping someone out of their misery is my way of giving back to society because I was once there, but now am alive.
The Mental Health Project which I started is having a positive Impact in the lives of our clients. Of note is Dorcas Musa who was a stigmatized epileptic, abused by her husband, unhealthy and poor when we first met her. Due to psychosocial support, nutritional support and mentorship offered by this project, she is steadily transforming into a socially accepted woman in the society. Her two children and husband are also happy and healthy. For me it is truly a privilege to give back to society through my skills.