Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

I am inviting friends, colleagues and family to enjoy an afternoon at Moreby before we move home to a:

'MMMmmm 'Afternoon :  A Memorable Musical Matinee in March at Moreby for Malawi!
On: Saturday 4th March 2017
From: 1pm – 4pm
I am asking all who come if they are willing to make a donation to the Special Needs Project in Malawi I support which helps 13 families with children with special needs. Most of the young people have cerebral palsy and learning difficulties– caused by prolonged labour, meningitis, jaundice, and cerebral malaria.
This project was instigated by Memory a local councillor (and a truly inspirational figure) who has a son with cerebral palsy and learning difficulties.
Heart of Mercy Institution (HOME), Namilongo Village, Zomba, Malawi
was officially opened  in April 2016. Memory considers that "what we think about a situation determines our action". He is challenging opinions and valuing these children as equal members of their communities. Memory has secured use of a building and recruited 5 volunteers who are willing to run the centre.

A small legacy paid for some renovations to the building and a grant has paid for some initial training for the volunteers.
This project  provides a centre for 13 children with special needs and their families where they can receive education, support, rehabilitation, stimulation, love and acceptance.
There is no provision by the Malawian government for children with learning difficulties. These children do not attend school, and there is no support for families.
It is a shameful thing to have a child with special needs and the families are often viewed by their community as 'having done something wrong' to deserve this. The children are hidden away and not involved in village life. The welfare of these children is a huge concern - they are left alone, hungry, dirty and vulnerable to disease. Fathers often leave the family and women carry the burden. Life is financially hard - there are no initiatives/ support / resources /grants or access to professionals with knowledge. Several of the children are orphans raised by extended family.

I am hoping the donations made for March 4th will fund some bicycle ambulances which will transport the children to the centre.

Many Thanks for visiting this Just Giving page to RSVP to my invitation
I look forward to welcoming you on Saturday 4th March at Moreby
Best wishes Carmel