One of the programs that PH
developed was people from the United States donating money to buy goats and chickens
for us to give recipients on the
island. Goats were given to widows with the understanding that once they breed
the goat they donate the newborn goat back to Kibisom so that they (the school) can use the
goat to help support the school. (A male goat was donated to another school to
be used for breeding purposes) The chickens were given to the orphans from the Kibisom, as a result they can raise the chickens and sell their eggs to make
money. The last day on the island, Week One gathered together with as many
goats as we could find to buy for donations. Accumulation of all the goats paid
for was a challenge as the election that was occurring while we were there
created a shortage of livestock. I can’t remember how many we finally ended up
with, but it was less than half of what we had money for. Teddy, our in country
coordinator bought and delivered the rest the next month.
When we gathered it was quite
the pomp and circumstance. Several of us took pictures with hand written thank
you notes for those who had given us money to buy goats and chickens so they
could see the fruit of their donations.
Jeff and Rowens handing out the chickens
Nothing like posing with a goat
One of my contributors
happens to operate a Chik-fil-a, so found a black and white goat to present.
The women that received the goats were so excited and appreciative, it was
really heart warming.
Watching the kids get their
chicken was hilarious, the chickens were almost as big as some of the kids.
They were so proud and happy with the gift and knew how much it would help.
It may seem funny to those of
us that live comfortably in our brick homes with running water and we know
where our next meal comes from, to think about the impact that a simple goat or
chicken could have on a family. To the
recipient it means the world, it means food on the table, and money in their
pockets.
When we were done handing out
goats and chickens Mayor Mike and Chris entertained us with some dance moves,
what a fun way to end a productive day.
If you would like to find out
more about Project Humanity and all the programs that we have initiated to
better the lives of the people of Africa, please go to www.projecthumanity.com
