Mother of three, Yamanie Bepot
In a modest wooden and zinc structure in Ordnance Fortlands, East Canje, 35-year-old Yamanie Bepot is a beacon of strength and determination. Her home, which she lovingly maintains, is far from ideal, but it shelters her and her two children, a safe haven born from a mother’s unyielding resolve to provide despite unimaginable hardships.
Yamanie’s story is one of love, loss, and survival. Fourteen years ago, her life was turned upside down when her husband passed away unexpectedly. “When he was alive, life was promising,” she recalls with a bittersweet smile. “But when he died, I realized the importance of being independent, of adapting to changes for my family.”
Before her husband’s passing, she lived in rented houses until they managed to acquire a plot of land and build the small structure she now calls home. What began as a symbol of hope has become a daily struggle as the years and elements have taken their toll.
Yet, Yamanie refuses to let her circumstances define her spirit. For years, she has worked tirelessly cleaning crabs, doing domestic work, and now serving at a Chinese restaurant to earn an income. Every dollar she saves goes toward ensuring her children’s happiness and keeping their home as comfortable as possible. “I buy the little things we need to make them happy,” she says softly. “But the only thing I can’t give them is a nice house. The money I earn is just not enough.”
Despite her efforts, the challenges persist. Rainwater seeps into the house, leaving puddles on the floor. Snakes and frogs find their way inside, turning her home into a battle for safety. Still, she presses on, saving bit by bit, even concreting a small area of the floor to keep out the mud.
“When rain falls, water comes in. Sometimes, I find snakes or crappo in the house,” she admits “All I want is a nice house, somewhere safe for my children. That would make me so happy.”
Even in the face of adversity, Yamanie has found ways to bring joy into her family’s life. She keeps the home clean and has even managed to make it festive for the Christmas season. Her love for her children and her unwavering hope for a brighter future shine through every small effort she makes.
For those willing to help, Yamanie’s dream is simple: a secure home where her family can thrive. Any assistance whether in building a new house, renovating her current home, or offering support in other ways would transform her life and give her children the safe haven they deserve.
To lend a hand to Yamanie and her family, you can contact her at 641-9145. Every contribution, no matter how small, brings her closer to the dream of giving her children a better tomorrow.
