It is with very sad hearts that we share that our beloved Vilma passed away early yesterday morning due to complications from a severe asthma attack.
Vilma was a special woman who loved God, her family, and the ROHI Project, in that order. Her gentle spirit, joyful laugh, and deep faith touched everyone around her.
Thanks to a generous donor, Vilma was able to join the ROHI Project full-time as a kitchen assistant in February of this year. Her presence brought warmth and care to every meal she prepared.
Below is the story we shared in January — the one that moved a donor’s heart to sponsor her salary and give her this beautiful opportunity to serve:
Reprint of the January 2, 2025 Tuesday Impact Story:
Today I want to tell you about one of our grandmothers, Vilma, a woman of unwavering commitment, a fierce protector, and a symbol of resilience. Her story is one of love, sacrifice, and an unrelenting drive to ensure a better future for her family. Vilma’s daughter had been battling leukemia leaving her weak and unable to work, and her two grandsons, Dilan and Jarol, were facing not only health problems themselves, but also homelessness. As a mother and grandmother, Vilma was determined to care for her family, but she had little in the way of resources and no home either.
For years, Vilma had worked in the dump, a harsh and exhausting job that she despised. Seeking a better life, she moved to the mountains to work seasonally during the coffee harvests, hoping to earn enough to support her family. But when her daughter’s illness worsened, Vilma returned to care for her daughter and grandsons. The only place available for the five of them was her aunt Balbina’s small home.
Balbina, who had been working in the Rohi kitchen for two years, had seen firsthand the impact Rohi had on the lives of children and families. She spoke with deep gratitude about the opportunities her own children were receiving at Rohi. Seeing the challenges Vilma faced, Balbina encouraged her to bring Dilan and Jarol to Rohi. However, at the time, the school was at full capacity.
Determined to give her grandsons a chance, Vilma made a selfless decision. Rather than give up, she chose to volunteer in the Rohi kitchen every day, offering her time and hard work in exchange for meals for her grandsons. Her dedication and love were evident in every task she took on, and her positive spirit quickly became a source of inspiration for everyone around her.
Vilma’s hard work did not go unnoticed. When space became available at Rohi, we were thrilled to offer Dilan and Jarol a place in the school. Jarol was recently honored at our awards ceremony for his hard work and is moving on to kindergarten, a milestone that was made possible thanks to his grandmother’s tireless efforts and Rohi’s support.
Even once her grandsons were in school, Vilma has continued to volunteer every day, her commitment only growing stronger. She has not only contributed her time but also become a positive, motivating force for both students and staff. Her hard work, compassion, and dedication have made her a beloved figure at Rohi.
Looking ahead to 2025, our hope is to have the resources to provide Vilma with a paid kitchen assistant position, a well-deserved recognition of her immense contribution. Her work ethic, positivity, and influence have enriched our community, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for her and her family. Vilma asked to have her words of gratitude shared with you in a video:
Vilma – Made with Clipchamp 1.mp4
Vilma’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference that love, determination, and a strong sense of community can make in overcoming adversity. Thanks to supporters like you, we are able to help women like Vilma transform their lives—and the lives of those they love—one step at a time! May you have a very Happy New Year! Thank you again!
Blessings,
Jana