How hope took root for Bashkim’s family

A place of stress and fear

Every morning before sunrise, 54-year-old Bashkim walks toward a small piece of land that once represented uncertainty and fear. Today, it offers something different: hope for the future.

In an Albanian village where limited economic opportunities leave many families struggling with poverty, Bashkim’s family is beginning to build a more secure future.

“When we first met Bashkim and his family, they were in real need,” said Ariana, who works for Mission Without Borders, supporting families living in poverty in the community.

Bashkim and his wife Etleva, 43, lived under constant financial stress. Providing for their children, Samanta and Brendon, was a daily struggle, with little opportunity to plan for the future.

From seeds to harvest

With support from Mission Without Borders, change slowly began to take root.

Through Seeds of Hope, Bashkim received seeds, tools and agricultural support, enabling him to work the land more consistently. What began with planting vegetables has grown to include potatoes, a variety of crops and even pomegranate trees.

Bashkim working the land.

“I used to think only about how to survive the day,” Bashkim said. “Now I think about what I can grow next season. When I see the harvest, I feel proud. Sometimes I sell part of it, and that helps my family.”

The family has also become part of the local church community.

“Now I wake up feeling much more peace,” Bashkim said. “Working the land and being part of the church community changed me. I feel calmer, and I feel responsible for my family in a new way.”

Building a different future

For Etleva, the transformation has been just as significant. “We have accepted Jesus in our hearts as a family,” she said. “Before, there was a lot of stress and tension, but now there’s more unity. We still have difficulties, but we don’t feel alone with them anymore.”

Bashkim happy with harvest.

Their daughter Samanta, 14, has noticed the difference too. “Before, there was always worry,” she said. “Now I see my parents more peaceful. We also go to the Mission’s activities and to church together, and that makes me happy.”

The family still faces financial challenges and hopes to expand their farming capacity with tools such as a tiller and grass harvester, bringing them closer to self-sufficiency and long-term stability.

But their lives are no longer defined by survival alone. Through faith, practical support and renewed purpose, Bashkim and his family are building a different future.

You can help another family move from uncertainty towards hope. Find out more about family sponsorship today.