I spent November 09 in Peru living in a shanty town on the outskirts of Lima where I volunteered in a fantastic refuge for children. The 'Casa Hogar' refuge is run by Project Peru, a small, lively, totally voluntary, UK based charity which offers food, clothes, shelter, education and fun to those in need in a country where half the population exists on less than a dollar a day.
From day one I was bowled over by the immediate and completely genuine warmth, generosity and hospitality I encountered from people who really do have nothing. I was priviledged enough to be welcomed not only into the refuge but also into people's homes, both in the shanty towns and a remote mountainous village called Sanayca. Everywhere I went people took the time to explain and show me the massive problems they face day in day out with virtually no chance of escaping the life they have to lead no matter how hard they work. Suffice to say I felt a huge range of emotions. I was deeply moved at their frankness and pride of where they come, saddened that people live in such apalling conditions and totally disgusted and angry that people have to face these problems with very little help.
Problems such as lack of food, unemployment, no water or electricity are by no means easy to solve but having seen for myself how vital the donations are and what a difference it makes to people's lives, I endeavour to raise money and continue to support Project Peru. I intend to organise many events in the near future to fundraise starting with the Brighton half marathon......i'll start with a half for starters......!!
Donations go directly to the people who need it and will not be adding to the profits of any 'gap year' company so please be as generous as you can and help me to help others who desperately need our help.
Thank you very much everybody!!
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