The Story of Mothers in Ende Rising from Domestic Violence Thanks to Ministry of Social Affairs' ATENSI Programme

The most painful hardship is not poverty itself; the deepest wounds often come from those who should provide protection. Grasiana experienced domestic violence that left lasting scars, yet as a mother, she chose to remain resilient to provide for her four young children. Previously, Grasiana operated a small stall, but her capital was depleted as profits were used to meet daily family needs. Amidst this struggle, a glimmer of hope arrived through the Social Rehabilitation Assistance (ATENly) programme, where the Ministry of Social Affairs provided entrepreneurship aid in the form of business capital for a small shop. Now, in a corner of her windowless home, Grasiana sells snacks, drinks, and daily necessities. Every sale represents more than just income; it is proof of her ability to move forward and rise from her past trauma. “I would like to thank the Ministry of Social Affairs for providing this business assistance. I hope this shop runs smoothly to meet my family’s daily needs,” she stated in a written release on Tuesday (2/6/2026).

A similar poignant story is shared by Maria Fonsalia Mete, a mother of six. She also endured domestic violence that left both physical and invisible emotional scars. Living in a simple house owned by her parents, Maria raises her six children alone. Amidst the demands of childcare, she practices weaving. Every thread Maria weaves represents hope—hope that her children can eat, attend school, and that their future will not inherit the trauma she experienced. Each piece of cloth produced from her loom tells a story of a mother’s fortitude. “A plain cloth takes two days to complete, but if the motif is complex, it can take a month, especially for women’s fabrics,” Maria explained. Unlike Grasiana, Maria received assistance in the form of weaving supplies, including thread and equipment, from the Ministry of Social Affairs. She hopes her weaving business will expand following this support. “We have received the capital assistance from the Ministry of Social Affairs; my hope is that it continues to progress and grow,” she said.