The OVC team have been very busy the past couple of weeks, driving all over the Mpongwe area to visit children and caregivers. They’ve covered hundreds of miles on dirt roads, and suffered several mechanical failures, but have also met some amazing people. Children have overcome so much and still remain positive in their pursuit of education. Caregivers, often in dire poverty themselves, are giving themselves to support these children in their communities. Click on the pictures for stories of some of the work. (The names of the children have been changed to protect their identity.)
All the children present at Muchindushi, except one who was sick.
This boy walked 25km after school on Wednesday to be at the meeting on Thursday.
Children gathered at Mwatishi district.
Mirriam loading the car with supplies to take to the children.
Meeting with children at Chisanga district. Communication is often a challenge and gathering everyone together can be a logistical nightmare!
Derrick (grade 9) from Mwatishi. When the car overheated, he helpfully collected 20 litres of water and kept a close eye as the radiator hissed and gurgled! So helpful and willing
Caregivers gathered at Chitakata.
Meg lives with Grandmother. Her mother died when she was 6 months old father a year later! She is 12 years old & grade 6 and very bright!
Vera (from Mwatishi), whose sister died and is living with elderly grandparents. It’s not easy for her grandparents to support her at school, so she needs extra support from local caregivers.
Violet, one of the caregivers at Muchindushi.
Daniel’s uncle (guardian)took his last years uniform and gave it to his own son! He was so upset he ran away to other relatives in another village.When the caregivers and pastor found out, they decided not to give him this years until the matter was sorted out. They took the problem to the Chief who called the uncle and warned him not to do it again(highest local authorities ) so today he received his uniform! And he was very happy. So tough for these children when the relatives are so difficult. The caregivers here are really acting as the children’s advocates! They are go betweens truly standing in the gap!
Cilla (Chisanga district) has been moved around by her family and so is rejoining the sponsorship programme next year. She was very happy to be back on the programme.
Mpongwe's People 