The trip to East Africa was wonderful - I frequently recall fond moments. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to join friends on the Kilimanjaro (attempt) and that our fundraising efforts have been so successful. Just before Christmas we received the news that our donations will be matched 3:1 (through SOS Norway). For those of you who were not able to donate in the first round donations are still open
http://www.canadahelps.org/
The Arusha SOS Children's Village (Orphanage) is operating at capacity right now and requires a major cash injection to expand. We visited another part of the Arusha Program - the Family Support Program where we can direct our donations toward a more immediate benefit. The children in the Family Support Program are facultative orphans (they have lost one or both parents or do not have a primary caregiver that is able to provide for their daily needs). They live at home, but need much assistance. The Family Support Program is a day program which includes schooling, lunch and breakfast. Our team felt that the funds we had raised would be better utilized in the family support program which is more connected to the local community. With the match our donations (nearly $10,000) will be quadrupled to $40,000 and cover FSP costs for over 500 at risk children for at least a whole year!!
The trip was definitely life changing for me. Thanks to your kindness, generosity and support the journey has been life changing for some children in Arusha, Tanzania - my deepest gratitude to all who supported our journey.
All the best for 2010!
