By Bridget Higginson | Executive Officer
Project Co-ordinators’ Dick and Nigel and HATW volunteer, Jill, are travelling back from Benin today! We are all very excited to hear about their recent visit and I know they are looking forward to reporting back to you, the supporters of this special project.
In the meantime, I will share with you some interesting facts about Benin and the project itself…
The Republic of Benin is situated in West Africa, with a population of 11.5 million people. Benin has an abundance of natural resources and is a very culturally rich country. Despite this, Benin has some of the worst literacy rates on the continent and is one of the poorest countries in the world.
Chez Papa Geoff orphanage in Affame was completed in 2016 and currently provides for 12 children. It is run by Dieu Donne and Rosalie, who provide loving care to the children who also gain access to education through the project and support from Hands Around The World (HATW). The total capacity is for 24 children and we are currently waiting to hear when the next group of children will join.
Chez Papa Geoff is designed to house the most vulnerable children in the area and provide them with a safe place to live and learn. Sadly, orphaned and vulnerable children in the community are at risk of falling prey to traffickers. Chez Papa Geoff provides these children with the safety and security to gain an education, whilst also giving them a childhood full of laughter and fun. The change in the children that have the opportunity to make Chez Papa Geoff their home is remarkable. Their sad ‘haunted’ looks soon disappear, as they are loved, encouraged and supported.
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