Monday, July 28, 2008

Raincoats and shoes for everyone!

Today was a beautiful day weather-wise and at the NLP. We were so relieved (and grateful) when our friend Daniel agreed to give us a lift to school this morning because we would have seriously struggled if we’d walked with those heavy bags of jackets and shoes. It was also great that Daniel finally got to see where we work and meet the kids. The children welcomed him by screaming with excitement and hugging him- it was as if he was a returning volunteer. Think he was a little overwhelmed but nonetheless said he’s be back for another visit tomorrow.
When the teachers and Annie saw what we’d bought for the kids, they were shocked and excited. They seemed even more impressed by the fact that we’d ventured out into Owino market on our own and bargained like local Ugandans. We are hard core!
After lunch, we had a meeting with Annie and Lilianne to elucidate the process of sponsorship that allows the children to go to primary school. We really hope that these children get sponsored and are doing all that we can while we are here to ensure that the process is a simple one so that people at home can donate easily. We also questioned Annie and Lilianne about the fact that there are only 28 kids at present at the NLP. As of tomorrow, the Namuwongo Literacy Project will be at capacity and we will have a jacket, shoes, and a blanket for each new student! YES!
After lunch we pulled the kids out of class one-by-one and fitted them with jackets and shoes. Hard to say who was more excited- us or them! We were pretty overwhelmed seeing them in their shiny coats down to their knees (they will grow into them!) and knowing that the next time it rains, they will stay dry, and they will be able to come to school. No excuses!  Among the jackets was a vintage navy Montreal Expos raincoat, now proudly worn by little Devino. If only he knew how much he could get for that jacket back home!
We have lots more to do this week and time is running out… We are determined to do as much as we can for the kids and the community over the next few days. Keep you posted!

Looking forward to tomorrow!

Lots of love,
Ruby & Kavita

2 comments:

howard shapiro said...

Be sure to take a photo of Devino in that EXPOS raincoat! What a difference you are making in the lives of these children! ---Howard

Howard Shapiro Judy Labow said...

I am in tears. All is going so well.Did you EVER DREAM you would do this! BRAVO, Kavita and Ruby. Bob is kvelling. Do good till the last drop. Dont promise,explore. LOVE Judy in den Hague