Empowering Ebola Orphans in Sierra Leone

Dear Project Supporters,

September marked the start of a new school year for the Dream Home children and thanks to your ongoing support, the children had new uniforms and school supplies.   

At the end of July, Sylvester made a surprise, 2 week project visit to Sierra Leone.  The Dream Home was one of the top reasons for his trip. He reports on his trip as follows:

"The kids were very appreciative fo the support that you have provided towards their on-going needs.  They asked me to convey their deep appreciation and gratitude to YOU. Included in this report is the photo that we took together.

The trip provided me with the opportunity to observe, learn, interact and evaluate. I spent quality time with the kids as a group and also on a one-to-one basis. I interacted with each of the kids individually. I wanted to understand their fears and dreams.  I wanted to learn more about the challenges that they are facing. I wanted to see what they are experiencing at the home.

The kids were happy and played as normal kids.  We sang several songs and had fun together.  

I saw great potential in each of them.  I saw them as leaders in the future, people who would tell their story of how they came up out of nothing. Given the right opportunities, the sky is their limit.

Being there in person also enabled me to examine the facilities with a critical eye, evaluate the level of service provided etc. I visited 2 possible other available houses that we could move into and investigated schooling opportunities.

I spent time with each of the staff - learning more about them, their backgrounds and the challenges that they face in carrying out their duties.  

I came back with a new challenge and eager for us to do so much more for these kids.  Here are some of the key observations that remain fresh on my mind as I reflect back on my trip:

• The kids were in good health and appeared well taken care of.
• The home sits up on a hill in Wellington and there is an urgent need for us to secure a bus to facilitate transportation of the kids.
• 2 of the kids need prescription glasses
• There is still a desperate need for us to install running water.  The current need is for us to build 2 structures to raise and support the water tanks that will hold water from the well - fed by a solar pump.
• Several of the kids need additional lessons / coaching to strengthen their educational foundation.

These opportunities are all achievable - with your support. Together we can do so much more." 

Please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us if you have any questions.

With great appreciation,
The Develop Africa & Dream Home Teams

Dear Project Partners,

It's hard to believe that the Dream Home opened its doors to Ebola orphans over a year ago already.  It has been one amazing year of progress and growth - thanks to your support.  

Over the past year we have been through times of sickness and health. We have been through times of want and plenty.  Overall it has been an amazing journey of hope, courage and learning.

In May, we celebrated the Dream Home being open for one year. Food and drinks were shared and the kids danced with joy and thankfulness. They performed a skit. There was also presentation from Geraldine.

A celebration each month: With 22 kids, there is never a dull moment. Each month we have a small birthday party to recognize and celebrate each child. Our goal is to treat these kids as the special kids that they are.

Over the past year the kids have gone from being isolated orphans to a family that is dreaming again - thanks to the support they have received.  We could not have supported these deserving children without your support and we are so thankful to you!

With Deepest Appreciation,

The Develop Africa and Dream Home Team