On the 12th August 2017 our 3 year old host brother, Olwam, had third degree burns after he was accidentally scolded by the contents of a cooking pot. Our host family couldn't afford to transport him to receive the urgent medical care he needed and his wounds became infected. When myself and Yvonne discovered Olwam we carried him until transport became available and took him to the nearest hospital, which is Nessie Knight hospital in Sulenkama. On arrival we had a five hour wait as there was only one doctor in the whole hospital and he was assisting patients who had been stabbed and in labour first.

Olwam was taken to their children's ward and we met the other very poorly children there, some of them had been there for months. The electricity is unreliable in the hospital, there is limited water supply and there is no natural light or toys. After communicating with some of the children and nurses it was clear that this also affects their mental health.

Myself and Yvonne have been living in the rural area of Qumbu in the Eastern cape of South Africa for two months now and have been volunteering with a charity. Part of this involves delivering sessions in schools and clinics regarding gender based violence, livelihoods, sexuality, health and HIV.

During our time here we have also noticed the condition of St. Bartholomews secondary school. All the floors/windows are broken and there is litter everywhere. The students are not equipped with enough pens or resources.

Before we return home we would love to make additional differences to this community and we can do this with both the children's ward and the school's classrooms. With the help and support from donations we aim to;

- clean and paint the walls

- provide stationary to at least three classes

- provide rubbish bins for the school

- provide the school with cutlery

- create sustainable & educational artwork for the children's ward

- provide toys and clothing for the children's ward

- deliver sessions on sanitation

Improving these facilities will positively impact the children and their future. Our goal is to raise £200 (3,200 RANDS) but with more donations we can make more changes.

I will be posting updates as well as before and after pictures. Olwam is now on the road to recovery. Every small donation is very appreciated and will contribute to achieving this project. Thank you for reading.

Jenni and Yvonne xo