Sport Zimbabwe Project #50117

changing communities through sport for 500 kids

by Harvesters in Sport Trust

Summary

We use sports to build relations with children in disadvantaged communities of Mount Hampden. We provide recreation, identify neglected but talented children, know them through fun activities during sports time, and help some return to school. Our aim is not to target bright kids but afford equal life opportunities including digital literacy. The need to provide a school has risen due to the imminent removal of children from land earmarked for govt projects. Their lives cant stall

$25,000
total goal

$3,498
remaining

57
donors

1
monthly donor

2
fundraisers

4
years

Challenge

The growing number of orphaned children in Zimbabwe due to the HIV& AIDS pandemic in both rural and urban communities is high.Children are left with no one to fend for the family let alone pay for their education. Young children roam the streets begging or searching garbage bins for food, clothes and anything they might find useful. They engage in drug abuse, alcohol at a very young age as a means of numbing feelings and end up involved in crimes, theft, teenage pregnancies and child marriages.

Solution

We give them a safe space to open up about their challenges through our friendly discussions during and after a game of football or netball. They get a chance to be normal children and for that day not worry about the next meal because we feed them. Counseling is provided by professionals who volunteer. The games are fun, recreational and they let their guard down and we encourage them to think positively. Re orientation into schools is important so they have basic education and some even excel.

Long-Term Impact

With funding, the program can grow to help 1000s of children in different communities. Those that succeed can help by offering services to the younger ones and being role models. We hope to build a center for the children and a school with qualified teachers. Vocational skills will also be trained in sewing, carpentry, and gardening for income-generating projects and provide their own basic needs. In-house counseling should be available. Talented sports players have a chance to be professional.