Justine’s New House Has Changed Her Life 

Meet Justine 

“I was born with a crippled leg. I used to live with my brother, but then he passed away,” says Justine. 

Justine lives in Uganda and has struggled under the combined weight of disability, poverty, and discrimination for many years. After her brother’s death, Justine had no proper shelter and no means to provide for herself. 

“In Uganda, persons with disabilities are often the poorest of the poor,” says Anthony Basaba, our Joni and Friends International Regional Manager in East Africa. 

“Village homes are made out of dirt, mud, and sometimes even cow dung. That creates medical problems. These houses aren’t clean, and people with disabilities are frequently on the floor,” adds Mary Basaba, R.N., Anthony’s wife and ministry partner. 

Without a proper home, Justine’s health and safety were compromised. She also lacked respect and standing in her community. Justine needed tangible help and new, eternal hope. 

Joni’s House Shows God’s Love Through Home Transformations 

When Justine met Anthony and Mary Basaba, and got connected with Joni’s House Uganda, her life changed dramatically, beginning with her home… 

“House transformation is a legitimate need for our people. Joni’s House Uganda is our opportunity to show the love of Christ to people with disabilities. One way we do that is through house transformations,” says Anthony.  

The Joni’s House team set to work constructing a sturdy house for Justine, made from cement and brick. When she moved in, her quality of life improved in multiple ways. In addition to physical safety and a clean environment, Justine gained new standing in her community, and a sense of dignity in her own heart. 

“This house has helped me. I have always been discriminated against, but now I have many friends. In my heart, I feel happy and loved,” says Justine. 

A Community Transformation 

Justine’s new house has transformed more than just her life. In addition to creating a shift in Justine’s perspective, her home has made a meaningful impact on her community, and her place within it. As Anthony says: 

“Justine’s social capital in the community has been improved through this house. She now sees herself as valued and appreciated. And the other people in her community now see Justine as their sister. She has been elevated through her new, respectable home…  

And when people ask why Joni’s House cares for people with disabilities, that’s when we share the hope that is in us that is in Christ Jesus.” 

Justine’s family is one of many who have been blessed with a home from Joni’s House Uganda. And today, Justine blesses others by hosting Bible studies in her home for the other women in her community. She never would have been able to afford a home on her own. And now, she’s using it for God’s glory. 

Joni’s House Around the World 

Joni’s House programs across the globe are raising the standard of holistic care for people living with disabilities. Operating in under-resourced communities, Joni’s House provides a place where local disability professionals can assess and meet the physical, economic, spiritual, and social needs faced by families navigating disability. Through Joni’s House, these individuals and families experience the hands-on love of Jesus and find lasting help and hope.