Empower AIDS Widows - Save a Community

We apologize for the lateness of this report. Our project leader in Uganda has been very sick for weeks now. He is slowly improving and we hope he will be back to work soon.

I have talked with him and will do my best to give a project update.

Earlier this year, the project leader attended a training given by Samaritans Purse in mushroom growing etc. which led to a proposal asking for support in learning how to make bar soap, liquid soap, mushroom growing and candle wax, because they felt that the market of these products was readily available and many of the members are living day to day.

This proposal was rejected due to very high cost and what we felt were unrealistic outcome expectations as well as no long term ability to maintain the proposal goals.

This has led to a recommitment to and a focus on our core mission to help the very neediest help themselves and each other.

1. In that vein we are continuing our practice of purchasing and distributing “good” and healthy seeds for home kitchen gardens and community gardens to share and to sell.  Better seeds equal better gardens which results in better nutrition for individuals and families.
2. We are continuing in poultry raising and egg production. Goat raising helps orphans and other vulnerable children especially child headed households live better lives. By raising, breeding and selling goats, these children can better feed themselves and send siblings to school.
3. Our amazing group of disabled members continues to educate others about the issues and prejudice they face daily. They have become more political and vocal. They are activists and provide a voice for the most vulnerable. Many support themselves by entertaining with song, dance, music and storytelling.
4. Our trainers are sharing with small and large groups of men and women about Long Term Survival Skills for HIV/AIDS. The trainers were given a refresher course last August.
5. Our tailoring program is going strong but we are in need of some specialized equipment such as a button hole machine. Our sewing machines are the “old fashioned” pump machines that can be used without the need for electricity.

One of the goals for the near future is connecting our tailoring shop to electricity which is now finally available in the village.

Thank you to all of our faithful and committed donors. Your donations truly make a difference.