Newsletter Archives

June 2007

I recently returned from my trip to follow up firsthand on the projects. I am happy to report that things are going great. I visited the homes of all the women in Yote Yawezekana Women's Group. I also met with all the children at their schools and at the feeding program. I talked with the children, some of their teachers, and took many photos! A celebration was held with Yote Yawezekana in thanks for all the support Projects of Hope is providing. 3 more high school students were identified to support in attending school (all young ladies Sheila, Claudia, and most recently, Noel). It was noticed during the trip that there were more boys receiving scholarships and it was important to focus on reaching out to girls as well. This is a priority with the outreach since girls are often not provided the same opportunities as boys in Kenya.

Above: Lavina and her mom outside their home.

At the celebration, all the students were provided with school bags filled with school supplies and clothing thanks to many generous friends who filled an entire suitcase of goodies for me to present to the children. Also, each student receiving a scholarship has received a Yote Yawezekana t-shirt. Mosquito nets were distributed for malaria prevention. Many speeches were given, by Peter, members of the women's group and myself to encourage the students. It was noted that special attention should be given to those who are orphans living on their own by the women of Yote Yawezekana looking out for their needs and making home-visits.

I was also dressed up in my own purple uniform which the members of the Women's Group wear. We were dancing, singing and having a great time!

Above: Celebrating with Yote Yawezekana and Projects of Hope kids

The women had stored the maize crop that was harvested as part of the Projects of Hope farming project last year. In Kenya, this is a time of food scarcity. The food was brought out from storage and each family received a big bag of maize to take home. Otherwise, many families would be struggling to eat this time of year. They were very happy that their farming efforts, and the guidance to store the food until it was needed, had brought them this benefit.

Another happy news is that the widows and children are now able to receive outpatient medical care through a collaboration with Shikokho Medical Clinic. A system has been set up where they sign their name when they go to the clinic and are treated and receive the needed medication. At the end of the month, Projects of Hope reconciles the account at the clinic for services received. The women with HIV especially will benefit from the medical services, as they are often ill. We are exploring ways to provide inpatient medical care at Mukumu Hospital for those affected by AIDS.

I also was able to visit Brion, the little boy with disabilities being supported by Projects of Hope whose family no longer wanted to care for him. Through the advocacy of Peter and Lillian he was accepted to Daisy Resource Center Orphanage. He is doing very well there and is doted on by the older kids at this government-run orphanage. The whole orphanage is dedicated to providing care to children with physical and developmental disabilities. I was able to meet many of the children receiving services there. I was excited to hear that FSD is providing an intern to the orphanage this summer!

Above: Brion and his good friend Peter

These stories are some of the good news I wanted to share with you.

Thanks for your continued generosity for the people of Kenya!
With Gratitude, Shanna