Teen caregiver pleads for help to care for young family

Delani Oxurus (19), a resident of Promise Land informal settlement in Okahandja, carries a weight far beyond her years. As the sole provider for her two younger brothers, her two-year-old daughter and her four-year-old nephew, she faces a daily uphill battle to secure basic necessities for her family.Oxurus&#039; hardships deepened after the passing of her grandmother – who had been the family&#039;s pillar of support – in October last year. To make matters worse, her mother has been hospitalised for over a month. Although recently discharged, she is unable to return home as she relies on oxygen machines – an impossibility in their electricity-deprived living conditions.The recent rains also caused severe damage to the shack in which the family resides. “I just want a chance to study so that I can create a better future for my family,” Oxurus said on Monday during an interview. “We do not have much, but I am willing to work hard if given the opportunity or guided in the right path for a better tomorrow.”Ongoing crisis Having left school midway through grade 10, Oxurus dreams of furthering her education in any field that could improve her livelihood. However, with no income, her days are consumed by the constant struggle to provide food, water and warmth for her siblings and child.Even accessing water is a daily challenge. Without a water card, she must rely on the generosity of others, often paying N$5 per collection. Recently, an elder in the community provided her with two cans of fish, maize meal and other essentials, while neighbours contributed firewood so the family could have a meal. These acts of kindness, though deeply appreciated, are temporary solutions to an ongoing crisis."Anyone who is truly capable of saving these kids should come; you will be blessed by the good Lord," she said.An elderly member of the community on Monday commented: "This young girl is taking care of her family and waking up because of God&#039;s grace."Help needed Oxurus is appealing to anyone who can assist with food, blankets, daily toiletries and cooking fuel for her family. More importantly, she hopes for an opportunity to resume her education and build a future that lifts her and her loved ones out of their current hardships.Anyone willing to assist Oxurus and her family can reach out to local community leaders or charity organisations in Okahandja.“I don’t want to give up,” she said. “I just need a helping hand to stand on my own and take care of my family.”

Teen caregiver pleads for help to care for young family

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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Teen caregiver pleads for help to care for young family

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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