We crossed town to the Bula Children's Home. A home that we have been working with now for 7 years. Unfortunately with the new laws constraining orphanages and child care facilities we have been less able to be involved in the home's development than we would have liked. I was alarmed at how thin everyone was. Over the past two years we have worked very hard for this group along with some American and Canadian friends to find a long lasting self sustaining solution. All the children are home from school for the month and I am concerned that food will be an issue. It will be the least of their problems however but a full belly goes a long way to helping a person deal with the other stresses that an African child has to deal with. If you could commit any money for this cause for even just the next three months it would make a huge difference to these kids. I held a meeting with the directors and made plans to try and better their current situation.
After perhaps an hour of a meeting and several deep conversations with young inquiring minds we left for Malangata. We were late for the village meeting but was informed that it was ok because we were the honoured guests. We held the meeting in a school room and after introductions I addressed the village. Probably 45 people were present including a local counsellor. I welcomed suggestions as to how we might use the building and encouraged questions. The folk were very responsive and welcoming it was such a joy to see the enthusiasm and excitement and a realisation that someone was going to care for them. It was voiced that no one ever gives because they have money but only because there is a compassionate heart within. I choked. It was a very good meeting and we have an idea of what the parents want for their village. I have called a meeting for Wednesday with the dropouts (14-25) of the area at 12 noon. I want to find out what their needs are and how we can best serve them.
We then went to the centre. It is superb. After a quick look around we set to work and began to get some tree stumps removed by hand. We be mad but it never crossed our minds to get involved in a bit of DIY. Two men with hoes happily set to work. We then discussed and agreed a small payrose with Charles, our farmer, and then began negotiations with two local people because we need to build an access road through their land to get to the centre after a relatively painless negotiation I paid them and we all signed a contract. Everybody happy. The contract is attached showing all signatures and the thumb prints of our new neighbours. Mary and Julia, two elderly sisters who were eating in their mud hut but we met at their encouragement and concluded conversations with a greasy handshake and photos being taken. Tomorrow the diggers are at Malangata and the road and landscaping of the site will be done ready for the water tanks to be bought and delivered on Monday.
What a great day. This is proving to be a very productive visit.
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