Looking back to Africa
This morning as I gradually came to full consciousness, my thoughts were of Africa and of the 2 men I met there who are using all their resources to help others in need. These others in need are displaced persons, including child soldiers, who populate refugee camps in northern Uganda and in eastern DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo).
My time in Africa has a hold on me, and I am deeply grateful for this. I would not want to return to a self who carries no awareness of the need in Africa … and of those who rise to help. It lives in me – and today it has risen to the surface.
I am disappointed to report that the instruments I rounded up will not make it to DRC until another segment of my family visits Goma next year and brings them as luggage items. The shipping expense was prohibitive and I learned that I can pay 6 months rent for a field that is used to grow potatoes and cabbage and more for that amount. This is what I have chosen to do.
I pray that they will get to the hands they are meant for – despite world events. I know the healing that music can provide.
This week I sent $100 using the new website for Remember Youth for Change – which I will share here as soon as I have confirmation that the funds have arrived. This is the monthly rent for the field I mentioned. Or it could go to training for child soldiers. I’m unsure whether I will ask Bienve to use it in a specific way or allow him to decide. I’m sure he knows better than I – and I would be most pleased to help in any of the expenses he has shared with me, which also include meals and activities and school shirts for the children of the refugee camps. So the decision is made. I will trust Bienve.
$100 does not seem like much, but it goes a lot farther in DRC than in our world. The meal we provided for 400 children cost $300.
Bienve reported these annual expenses for me to consider donating to:
- $3000 for training fees in carpentry, painting, and agriculture for child soldiers, also sports and music activities
- $5000 for all activities in both refugee camps and communities
- $1200 land rental
There may be more areas to donate to, if you are inclined. Soon the website.
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