How do construction volunteer projects with MEDLIFE transform lives for the better? And what is the importance of a safe home in terms of recovery from health-related issues?
To answer these questions, let’s look at the inspiring story of Ellianasia Marupa Mlay, known by many as Bibi—an elderly woman in Tanzania who endured decades of hardship and resilience. After the passing of her husband, Bibi single-handedly supported her family by working on a small farm and raising her three children in a modest home. When we met her at 95 years old, she was living in a house that no longer met her needs, especially after suffering a broken leg that required months of hospital care. Thanks to the dedication of our incredible MEDLIFE volunteers and staff, Bibi was given a new, safe home. This project is a testament to the power of community and compassionate service.
the effect of Housing Insecurity
For many elderly individuals like Bibi, housing insecurity is a challenging reality. Her old house was not only small but lacked basic comforts, making recovery from injury and daily life especially difficult. When Bibi broke her leg in 2015, she spent four months in the hospital, during which her neighbors rallied to seek help from MEDLIFE. Responding to their request, MEDLIFE organized a team of volunteers, staff, and local community members to build a new home for her, one that would provide safety, comfort, and peace of mind.
Through our construction volunteer projects, MEDLIFE works to address more than just the basic need of shelter. Our infrastructure projects aim to tackle the deeper issues linked to poverty and health by ensuring families and individuals have a stable place to live. Safe housing plays a crucial role in providing overall well-being and can dramatically reduce the risks associated with inadequate living conditions. By building homes for people like Bibi, MEDLIFE aims to combat housing insecurity head-on, providing a foundation for healthier, more secure lives.
MEDLIFE Is A Force For Global Development
The work done through our construction volunteer projects extends beyond just housing. We also work to assist with broader needs within communities like staircase construction, school renovation, sanitary restroom facilities, and roads. To understand what needs to be built, we work closely with community leaders and locals who know exactly what their community members need to thrive. Instead of coming in and building what we think needs to be built, we ask for input and collaborative effort from the people who know their communities best.
Bibi’s story is a powerful example of how community can come together to assist those who need it most. After years of hardship, she was able to live her sunset years comfortably in her new home, surrounded by a community that supports and looks out for her.
After settling into her new home, she proudly shared with us: “I am very happy to be in my new house. I’m never going back to the old house again!”
Join MEDLIFE and Help People Like Bibi
If you’re inspired by Bibi’s story, consider joining a MEDLIFE Service Learning Trip (SLT) to contribute your time and skills to projects like hers. Participating in a MEDLIFE project gives you a hands-on opportunity to make a tangible difference in communities that need it most. Alongside providing assistance, these trips allow volunteers to gain valuable volunteer experience in fields like medicine, infrastructure, and education.
Your involvement can help transform lives and offer hope to people facing hardships similar to Bibi’s. Join MEDLIFE and be part of a movement that brings healing, safety, and dignity to families around the world, one project at a time.
To get started with MEDLIFE today, fill out the interest form below, download our free brochure, or check out some of our upcoming trips!