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Zimbabwe is a tough place to be even if you have your family around you... to be orphaned and completely vulnerable in Zimbabwe is unbearable. The Jesuits in Zimbabwe have several projects to support orphaned children. Makumbi Children’s Home is one such project. It provides a safety net for children who have no one.
Tinashe is one little boy who was brought to Makumbi – he was two days old when he was discovered by chance behind a beer hall. He had been partially buried and it was only when dogs were barking that people discovered this baby boy. He was taken to social services who, unable to cope with a collapsing economy and being able to provide for so many children, passed him on to Makumbi where is now safe and able to have a most fundamental need met – the right to life.
The home is structured so that children feel they are part of a family network. There are ten houses and each house has a “mum” with a mix of ages and boys and girls. When they’re old enough the children go to school at the mission. At home they are involved in family life and with projects like looking after the chickens, collecting their eggs, watering crops and so on.
The devastating impact of HIV/AIDS is felt across the country and Musami is another one of our missions who provide care and education for children who have nothing or no one. They cater more specifically for children with mental and physical disabilities and again social services rely heavily on Musami to care for these children who cannot function in the mainstream education system.
The economic situation is widely known. However, the many personal stories of those dealing with the collapse are not always heard. About six months ago the Superior of Musami Mission told a heart rendering story of some children who stopped attending school because they were too embarrassed by their lack of clothing. Some of the children have had to resort to wearing plastic bags. He said there are about 40/50 desperately needy children at the school. Funds raised would help to ensure that these children have the dignity to walk to school.
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Jesuit Missions gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
So please sponsor me now!
Tricia
