The Safe House: An Enclave of Peace and Hope

Marceline and her late mother fled the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2013 when war broke in their village. Marceline, at 11 years old, was the youngest child in a family of six. At the time of the flight, Marceline could not comprehend what was happening. Her mother held her tight, running away from the village to safety. Her siblings were left behind. Marceline and her mother ran for miles and miles. Suddenly, a big truck stood by the road side and offered passage to the people who were crying, running, and scampering for safety. Marceline’s mother secured a space inside the truck, and while holding her tight, simply closed her eyes and thanked God for the help. Marceline, a small child then, only understand later on what was happening that day.

Marceline and her mother arrived safely in Kenya and began living with a good samaritan for what was initially supposed to be a few months, but which turned into years. Marceline felt very relieved being in a peaceful country.  The frenzy of screams and running in the streets of her village were things of the past. One day, her mother decided to take a walk in the middle of the night, stating that she felt overheated and needed some air. She never returned. The police were informed and searched for Marceline’s mother for months, but to no avail.  Much to Marceline and the host family’s devastation, she was gone.  Alone without her mother, Marceline was reffered to Heshima Kenya’s Safe House for protection and care.

 “I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect, but when I arrived it felt welcoming and comfortable.  I was shy to be there at first, but during my stay I began to feel for the first time, like I was part of something.  Everyone was there because they were facing some adversity, and we were all in it together.  I knew things would get better.”

Marceline started her studies at Heshima Kenya Girls Empowerment Project. She loved to interact with other girls in the campus. She started to participate in dancing, modelling and drama activities. She was able to build healthy relationships with all the residents in the Safe House. Her self-esteem and confidence grew stronger each and every day.  Marceline loved the Zumba workout. She attended a few sessions with one of the best trainers in Nairobi. She became one of the best resident Zumba workout trainer in the Safe House. Every Saturday, she would encourage the other residents to finish the house chores in time and will set music system ready for Zumba workout.

During her free time, Marceline would take her journal book and write her dreams. She always hoped to get a new family in a faraway country. She wanted to get higher education, better opportunities and start her life in a new country. Marceline wants to become a doctor. Marceline got resettled to the USA in May 2017. She promised to work hard and become what she wants to be. She has been a great friend to many in Heshima Kenya.     

“I look back on my experience as an important hurdle.  Even though there were difficulties, throughout my life, I have learned how to overcome.  Through the counselling and support I received at the shelter, I began to realize that I could build a new life for myself.  To me that’s what any good social program should do, give people the ability to take care of themselves – give them the skills to overcome any hardship.

Currently, Marceline is enrolled into high school. She can have the life she dreams about; she can live without fear; she can find the strength to do it, because she is a strong young woman.