Expand Our Vital Programs for Refugees in Uganda

When HOCW launched this fundraising project in November 2014, we knew the goal of raising enough funds to expand to a new compound by April 2015 was ambitious. But with the increasing demand for health, educational and recreational programs among the refugee community in Ndejje, we also knew that it was crucial to try to raise the necessary funding as quickly as possible. Thanks to your generous support, we are pleased to announce that we have achieved our goal!

On April 1st, HOCW took over an additional compound about 100 meters from our original location. The new space allows the collective to have their own space to make crafts and practice hairdressing, has private offices for the staff that provide confidential services, and also has a large community room for meetings and our library. There is a large kitchen and big yard. Our students and staff are so happy!

Here are some of the new things that our community has accomplished already thanks to the new space: 

• The soap making collectives sold 120 liters of soap in one week-a record! (The women recently had their soap tested for antimicrobial properties and certified so that schools and clinics can purchase with confidence.)
• The spring Children's Program began during the last week of April. We have hosted over 70 children and are able to play fun outdoor games in the new compound. In addition, we now have more space to host movie nights with a projector donated by generous volunteers from the U.S. The kids are loving Disney films in particular, which also offer a great opportunity for them to improve their English!
• In response to requests for more recreational activities, HOCW has also started renting a nearby sports facility every Thursday from 2-6 pm. Every member of our community is invited to come together and play sports including basketball, netball, volleyball and football. Between the outdoor space at the new compound and this rented sports facility, we hope to increase the level of physical fitness among our community of refugees and villagers.

Thank you to everyone who made this fundraiser a success – your donations are helping HOCW continue to be a vital resource for refugees and residents of Ndejje.