“It is necessary to give oneself to God, even at the cost of many sacrifices, and to feel great satisfaction for having worked on something that helps to alleviate the miseries of others.”
St. Vincent de Paul
In 2012, Rosilene Elias de Silva, 39, better known as Rosa, began her journey at the Madre Maria Rosa Social Center, taking part in a workshop to make beaded key chains.
At the time, a mother of three young children - José, Eduardo and João - she faced challenges in reconciling her responsibilities at home with her desire to learn: “ At the beginning it was very difficult because of the young children and my chores, but I gradually adapted,” recalls Rosa, who has since become the mother of ten children.
What began as a simple workshop expanded into a variety of craft skills. Rosa immersed herself in crochet, embroidery, painting and filé courses, taking advantage of every opportunity offered by the Social Center.
Rosa highlights the positive impact the workshops have had on her mental health. She believes that the classes work as therapy, not just for her, but for all the women who attend the CSMMR.
Her gratitude is visible when she talks about the Social Center. The institution, which works with children and women in situations of social vulnerability, has become a fundamental pillar in Rosa's life and that of many other women.
But the benefits didn't stop at emotional well-being. Rosa discovered that her new skills could translate into income and today she sells key rings and decorative sandals, which she learned to make when she arrived at the CSMMR.
In addition, Rosa has taken on the role of workshop leader at the Social Center and shares her knowledge with other women, teaching them how to make decorative sandals.
The income from her classes has a significant impact on her daily life. "From my income from the workshops, I am now able to buy gas, medicine, pay for the internet and even buy my materials. This money helps me a lot every month," says Rosa.
For her, who has never had access to other vocational courses, the Madre Maria Rosa Social Center represents a unique opportunity:
“The Center has come to benefit many women. Giving them the chance to learn and then teach, without having to pay anything for it, at no cost. All of this has brought me many good things, and I can only thank Sister Joana and everyone who works at Madre Maria Rosa."
Text and Photos: Lucas Thaynan - Comunication CSMMR
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