On Mercy Day, employees of the women's colony of the Department of the Penal system in the Abai region visited a lonely pensioner living in one of the villages of the Zharminsky district and provided her with the necessary assistance.

          85-year-old Sarah Mustafyevna Mustafinova has lived a difficult, full of trials life. At the age of 19, she got married and lived with her husband for 33 years. However, at the age of 52, the woman became a widow and was left alone with four children. Over time, fate dealt her new heavy blows — after the death of her husband, she lost three sons. The only daughter, after graduating from high school, got married and went to live abroad. For more than forty years, mother and daughter have been in touch only by phone.
          Despite all the difficulties of life, Sarah Mustafievna did not break down. She continued to work hard and do her best for the future of her children. For more than twelve years, the woman worked as a dispatcher at a railway station, and then for about ten years as a salesman at a regional grocery store. With her hard work and perseverance, she tried to give her children a decent education and a life support.

           Today, the pensioner lives alone in a small house. Social workers help her in everyday life, but this winter, due to heavy snowfalls, the courtyard and windows of the house were practically covered with snow. The snowdrifts were so high that even during the day the lights had to be turned on in the house. Due to the obstruction in the courtyard, the woman could not go to the well and get water and go grocery shopping.

            The staff of the institution came to the pensioner to help her cope with everyday difficulties. They completely cleared the yard of snow, cleared the path to the gate, and drew water from the well.
          In addition, after learning that Sarah Mustafievna had not seen her daughter for many years, the staff of the institution organized a video call for them. This meeting, even through the phone screen, was a real gift for the elderly woman.

          — I didn't even expect that they would remember about me and come to help. It's especially hard for me in winter — the snow is high, and I don't have enough strength to cope on my own. When you cleared the yard and brought water, it became much easier for me. And the biggest gift is the opportunity to see your daughter. It's been so long since we've seen each other.… I am very grateful to you for the human warmth and for giving me such joy. May the kindness you do come back to you," said Sarah Mustafievna.

           — Mercy Day is not just a date on the calendar. For us, this is a reminder that there are people nearby who especially need support, attention and human involvement. Our employees try not to remain indifferent and, if possible, help those who find themselves in a difficult life situation. Today we came to support Sarah Mustafievna, help her with the housework and just give her some warmth and companionship. Seeing the sincere joy and gratitude of an elderly person is the most valuable thing for us," said Akmaral Kairanova, Deputy head of the institution.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/duisabai/press/news/details/1236759?lang=ru