KUCHING: Hope Place Kuching has come to the aid of a widow from Astana Road who is unable to work due to her family’s challenging circumstances.
The organisation is now supporting 51-year-old Julia Bujang with basic food supplies, as she is the sole caretaker of three children and two grandchildren.
During a visit, Hope Place learned that Julia’s husband had passed away in March. A full-time housewife, Julia never had the opportunity to work, as she is fully occupied caring for four school-going children at home.
“Julia has two children of her own, aged 7 and 10, and is also the guardian of two grandchildren, aged 9 and 7. Her 10-year-old daughter, Azarina, is autistic, while her 9-year-old grandchild also has a learning disability,” the organisation said in a statement.
The family’s only source of income comes from Julia’s eldest daughter, Zamilla, 23, who works at a food stall. However, Zamilla lives with bipolar disorder and requires regular mental health check-ups at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH).
At home, Julia is overwhelmed with caring for the children, especially those with special needs, while also managing Zamilla’s condition.
“With four children in school and a single income that is below the minimum wage, the family constantly struggles to make ends meet. Julia currently receives RM300 monthly from the Social Welfare Department,” it added.
Members of the public wishing to support Hope Place (Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching) can contact them at 082-505987 or 013-5672775. Donations can also be made directly to Maybank account 511289001160. Receipts are available upon request. For more options, visit their Facebook page for the Sarawak Pay / S PAY GLOBAL QR code.
