Blog

In a quiet rural village in Malawi, Abigail Fred was doing everything she could to care for her three children. But life was hard. Some days, there wasn’t enough food. School fees were often out of reach. And without access to a bank or a safe way to save money, there was no real way to plan for the future. 

That changed when Abigail joined a local savings group, set up by Team Hope’s partner in her village. 

These groups — called Village Savings and Loans Associations (or VSLAs) — are simple but powerful. Neighbours come together to save small amounts regularly, lend to each other when needed, and support one another through life’s ups and downs.

With her first loan of just €15, Abigail bought a goat. That goat gave milk to sell and manure to help grow crops. It was a small step, but it gave her hope. Her next loan helped her start a small business selling dried fish at the local market — a business she still runs today. 

Now, Abigail is earning a regular income. Her children are back in school. She’s even been able to buy a second goat using her savings. 

“I have a vision of building a modern home,” she says proudly. 

Abigail is also giving back. Her savings group has a shared social fund that helps families in crisis and provides breakfast for children at the local preschool — the same one her daughter attends, started with help from Team Hope. 

Abigail’s story is a powerful reminder that small acts of support can lead to big changes. When families are given the tools to save, plan, and dream — their future opens up. 

At Team Hope, we believe in going beyond the box. A Christmas Shoebox is often the first connection. But long after the wrapping paper is gone, your support helps build long-term solutions that empower families like Abigail’s to break the cycle of poverty for good. 

This is what hope in action looks like. 

And it starts with you. 

Make a donation here and join us in spreading hope.