Thank you, from Ty Cariad Africa
Since the start of the corona virus there have been a lot of changes – it could be said that there is not much which has remained untouched by the virus.
Just as the virus hit at the end of March 2020, as a charity we were in a precarious position. Our finances were desperately low, and we were unable to plan any of the “usual” fundraising activities to make up the shortfall, and this at a time when we were unsure of what the future would bring, as were many others. We sent out a newsletter on 24th March, and we have been overwhelmed by your support.
Grateful
“feeling or showing an appreciation for something done or received”
Over the last 3 months many of us have had time to reflect on life, have come to realise what is important and what is not, and have been grateful for some of the things which in the past we have taken for granted. As a charity, we have also had time to reflect, and are grateful for many things. Here are just some of the things for which we are deeply appreciative:-
· The financial support we have received which enables us to continue to support orphans, vulnerable children and communities in Uganda. Thank you for:-
o One off gifts.
o New monthly supporters.
o Funds received from grants and trusts, and their recognition that funds need to be available to be used for whatever needs arise during the pandemic.
o Financial support received in Uganda from individuals, groups, the local church, and government.
· Prayer support – we believe this to be crucial.
· That none of the children or staff have shown any symptoms of corona virus.
Delighted
“feeling or showing great pleasure”
Our main delight is that because of your support and the great team we have in Uganda, we are continuing to support orphans, vulnerable children, and communities in Uganda during this challenging time. Breaking things down, we are also delighted that:-
· The education of the children at the Home continues. As well as school subjects, the children are also receiving a wider education which includes physical exercise, cooking, drama, and life studies. Some of the children who were studying vocational qualifications have been sharing their new knowledge with others, and putting their experience to work at the Home.
Destiny applying his new skills in farming
Freda applying her hair dressing skills
Drama presentation about corona virus
· We have been able to support 27 families who live outside of the Home with funds to purchase food. Each family supported has suffered as a result of the pandemic, and the support provided has made a huge difference. What has also been hugely encouraging is the way in which supported families have themselves supported neighbours by sharing their food.
· The Home in Uganda has welcomed 11 children for temporary care since March 20th. All of them received a great welcome from staff and children and were extremely well cared for whilst at the Home.
Proud
“feeling deep pleasure or satisfaction as a result of one's own achievements, qualities, or possessions or those of someone with whom one is closely associated”
We are very proud of:-
· The staff in Uganda – their dedication and “can do” attitude is an inspiration to us.
· The children who we support – their attitude and adaptability to the changes over the past 3 months have amazed and encouraged us. The children at the Home have not left the premises since March 20th but have coped admirably throughout.
What next?
Uganda currently has registered 1,000 cases of corona virus and no deaths. The schools remain closed, church services and mass gatherings are banned, there is a curfew in place between 7:00pm and 06:30am, and many businesses remain closed.
There is much uncertainty regarding education, with some expecting children to return to school soon and others suggesting that they should not return until next year, and so we have to be prepared for all possibilities.
Once again, we thank you for your support which has enabled us to support orphans, vulnerable children, and communities. We have been, and will continue to be, proactive and reactive during this challenging time.
