One Big Bucket of Fish III

by Scott Nordstrom

July 4, 2023

I first wrote about Momma Mary in July of last year with my first post about here situation One Big Bucket of Fish. In One Big Bucket of Fish II, we posted Mary’s thoughts on her business from her unique perspective, and it has been wonderful to see her empowered to work in her community that provides her a hope for the future.

I had the opportunity to visit with Mary in May of this year and was a distinct privilege to stop by and see Momma Mary at her business in Kayole.

I was impressed with her inventory of fish and vegetables as she held her umbrella to keep the shade over her table. She talked about the possibility of upgrading her inventory that will generate higher margins for her business, and some of the location choices that she has made in setting up shop.

Mary still works during the day, and then comes out into the community late in the afternoon selling into the evening.

It was nice to see Mary and she was obviously in a different place than when I first met her in February 2022. I could see that Mary’s dignity had been restored now as she was now able to provide for her family.

She was not shy about what was yet needed for her business, and we discussed her plans to build-up her volume to help her better finance her expansion. There was also mention of a second location which is awesome to see.

As I consider all that has happened for Mary, I cannot help but wonder if there might be other widow-led households in the community that could be empowered in much the same way. Mary is a powerful example of what can happen with a small investment in vulnerable families that can have a huge impact on their futures.

Today, we are working on plans to roll-out small enterprise training to widows in the community of Kayole that might involve micro-loans to start new businesses. I believe this to me a very exciting opportunity for our movement and for vulnerable families in Kayole. Mary is very thankful for everyone that was involved in making this business possible.

We are so happy for Mother Mary and her children, and we are encouraged how the Father is providing for this family through One Big Bucket of Fish! Thanks to both Minister Isaiah and Janet Daniel for their assistance with Mary and advancing the Kingdom of God going back to last year! I believe that this is how the Church is to address the needs around us. Amen!

We are appealing to all those involved with Global Orphan Relief and their Church Mobilization effort to continue praying for Good Samaritans throughout the world who are trusting God to serve others who are in great need of assistance.

Church Mobilization is our newest initiative launched in February 2022. We are currently working with local area churches to co-host Great Commandment Workshops where we bring together multiple subject matter experts to discuss the why and how to serve the poor generally, and orphan children specifically. We will track the impact of children served through this effort to justify continued investment; however, we have no plans to be funding the care of children through this initiative.