Restore Hope in Climate-Affected communities

Dear Partners and Supporters,

We would like to share a brief update on the current rainy season in Uganda and its impact on the children and communities we serve, particularly in informal settlement areas such as Bukoto and other slum communities.

Over the past weeks, Uganda has experienced heavy and persistent rainfall. While seasonal rains are expected at this time of year, the intensity has significantly affected already vulnerable households. Many families living in informal settlements are facing serious challenges due to poor drainage systems, blocked waterways, and inadequate housing structures.

In several areas, drainage channels are flooded or clogged, causing water to flow through homes and along footpaths. This has led to stagnant water around residential spaces, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and malaria  especially among children.

A number of families are also living in makeshift or semi-permanent structures with old roofs and weak walls. During heavy downpours, many houses leak or flood, forcing families to place basins, buckets, and mats to catch water or raise their bedding to stay dry. Some households have experienced temporary displacement as they seek safer shelter, and children in these homes are struggling to sleep, study, or stay warm.

These conditions continue to expose children to health risks, emotional distress, and interruption in daily routines such as school attendance and play. Despite these hardships, community resilience remains strong, and families are doing their best to cope with limited resources. Joy for Children Uganda continues to engage community leaders, schools, and caregivers to offer guidance, monitor vulnerable households, and share basic preventive information on sanitation, child protection, and emergency preparedness.

We remain committed to ensuring that children in vulnerable settings are supported, safe, and protected during this challenging period. We appreciate your continued partnership in strengthening communities and safeguarding children’s well-being.

Thank you for standing with us.

Communities in Northern Uganda continue to experience the effects of floods, droughts, and other extreme weather conditions. These changes have destroyed schools, homes, and roads, making it hard for many children to stay in school.

In several areas, heavy floods have damaged classrooms, toilets, and school materials. Some schools have been forced to close, while others are overcrowded or unsafe. In dry areas, long periods without rain have caused serious water and food shortages. Families are struggling to survive, and many children miss school to help at home or look for water.

These problems have affected children’s learning and general well-being. Many learners, especially girls, are more likely to drop out, marry early, or face other risks when they are not in school. Teachers and parents have also shared worries about how these challenges are affecting children’s performance and confidence.

Joy for Children Uganda has been working with schools, community leaders, and local government to raise awareness about the connection between climate change and education. Through community meetings and school activities, we have continued to promote climate education, helping children and teachers understand how to live and learn in a changing environment. We have also encouraged families to keep their children in school even when times are hard, as education gives children hope and a sense of purpose.

Education remains a lifeline for many children. It provides safety, hope, and the chance to build a better and more stable future. Even with all the challenges, many children continue to attend classes and dream big. Their courage reminds us of the importance of protecting education in all situations.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our donors, partners, and supporters for standing with us. Your continued support helps Joy for Children Uganda reach more children and families, ensuring that education remains strong and that every child has the chance to learn, grow, and build a brighter future.