Grace International Childrens Foundation

Restoring hope to orphaned children in East Africa

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March 2022 Administrator’s Report

Lovely greetings from the little ones of Lulwanda. Once again it’s a blessing to take you through the activities of the month. Before we look at the activities , we are thankful to all of you for the great and continued support rendered to the vulnerable Children. God has been gracious to us as we continue to be a role model in raising up Children in the Eastern part of Uganda. We continue to receive visitors recommended by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to come and learn from us on how we carry out different activities in raising orphans. Thank you so much for being part of this success story. Below are the activities of the month of March.

MEDICAL

This month we had a total number of 67 patients and this comprised the Children and staff members. The main illness was malaria, respiratory tract infections, flu and cough. We had six referrals. This included Treavor Mulongo and Madina Akelo who were referred due to persistent fever and headache. Grace Adongo, Bridget Kwaga and Daisy Khanakwa were taken for dental check-up and management. James Auloyi was taken to the eye clinic Mbale and praying that he responds to the medication. Marion Neboshe caught Chicken pox and thankfully, she was treated by the Nurse and she recovered very well without spreading to the rest of the Children. Generally, all our Children are doing well medically and we are grateful for your contribution towards the health of our Children.

Nurse Faith Gloria treating Baby Gift Logose

DISCIPLESHIP

We are grateful to Ryan Kelley for the continued involvement in the leadership and discipleship of the staff and children through WhatsApp. We are enriched and blessed by his messages on a daily basis. As home staff, we always gather and have our fellowships every Wednesday of the week. During this session, we sing praise and worship. Then we read scriptures from the Bible under the leadership of the Lulwanda Youth Pastor Martin which helps us boost our spiritual lives and also encourage one another.

KELLEY’S DEPARTURE

The Kelley family has transitioned from Uganda to the United States this month. They served at Lulwanda for almost 6 years and are sad to leave, but comfortable in knowing that the departure is God’s will. They also plan to return to Uganda every six months to check on the children and staff at Lulwanda and remain missionaries to Uganda. They are extremely grateful for their time in Uganda and look forward to staying involved. They have settled in Laurium, Michigan where Ryan will be working as the Staff Director at Gitchee Gumee Bible Camp and working as the Business Manager for Destination Calumet. He will also be involved with their local church there in lay-ministry opportunities as they arise. Be praying that they continue to pursue the Lord in all they do for His glory alone.

The Kelley Family

JOHN PALMER’S VISIT

We were blessed to receive Uncle John Palmer and his daughter Lilly Palmer towards the end of this month. It was such a joyful moment to welcome him and Lilly after a long period of time since he left Lulwanda in 2018. During his visit, he was able to reunite with the Lulwanda Alumni staying in Kampala, Mukono and Mbale. He also visited some of his old friends in Mbale town and staff members who retired from Lulwanda. On the first day at Lulwanda the staff members and Children welcomed John and Lilly with a lot of excitement. This was a valuable time to be together once again and also refresh past memories. John promised to come back next year 2023 with his beloved wife Bobby and a small team of 15-20 people.

John Palmer with the Lulwanda Alumni who live around Kampala and Mukono
John Palmer with the Lulwanda Alumni who live around Mbale
John Palmer with the Secondary School Children at Lulwanda

HIRE OF TWO HOUSE MOTHERS

We hired Grace Adeke and Loyce Kainza as new house mothers for the newly constructed houses 7&8. So far they have shown to be good house mothers due to their love and care for the Children. Grace completed senior four and she is spiritually strong and committed to serving the Children and the Lord while Loyce is a secondary teacher who looks to be very resourceful for the benefit of the Children. All our Children are now staying in the new houses and we are very much grateful for your contribution towards building for the future.

Mama Loyce on the left standing with her Children in House 8
Mama Grace on the right standing with her Children in House 7

LPS VISITATION

During the Lulwanda Primary School visitation, we were extremely happy to realise that our Children are performing and competing favourably with the Community children. Most of our Children were performing better than community children. The performance for mid-term examinations was good and the following children excelled in each class.

S/NNAMECLASSPOSITION/GRADE
1EMMANUEL KINTUP.7DIVISION ONE
2DAPHNE NAMULONDOP.7DIVISION ONE
3PEACE MARANIP.5DIVISION ONE
4PATRICIA NAKHUMITSAP.4DIVISION ONE
5MARK PANDEP.3FIRST
6EMMA TUMWAP.2FIRST
7JAMES AULOYIP.2SECOND
8ASUMAN KATOP.1SECOND
9ESTHER ASEKENYETOP-CLASS499/500
10BONIFACE WASHIREKHOTOP-CLASS499/500
11JOB WANZOYATOP-CLASS499/500
12BRIAN KOTOJEMIDDLE-CLASS499/500
LPS best performers in mid term examinations. From left to right, we have Marani, Patricia, Kato, James, Tumwa, Job, Brian, Esther, Boniface, Mark, Daphne and Emma.

TRAINING NEW STAFF ON CHILD PROTECTION

As a policy at LCH, all new staff have to be taken through the existing LCH policies. This month we were able to train all new staff on child protection policy which is paramount in handling children from different backgrounds. We also looked at other policies like Employee Medical Policy, Christian Ethics and Code of Conduct. At the end of the training the new staff signed the consent forms so that nobody has an excuse for being ignorant about the Policies

Staff attending the training

FINANCIAL TRAINING

Both the Lulwanda staff and Lulwanda Alumni are undergoing the financial training. On the side of the staff members, the financial training is aimed at creating self-help groups for members to pull resources together so that they can later lend to one another as well as save for the future. On the side of the Lulwanda Alumni the training is to equip them with wisdom in saving and to be able to start a small income business. However, few Alumni attended because they were still at school. We plan to quickly start in the next month of April during the holiday break since the majority will have finished exams. We are very much grateful to the Chairman of the US Board, Mr. Larry for ensuring that this goes on successfully.

LCH Alumni attending financial training

SPONSOR LETTER WRITING

We are grateful to the Almighty God that some of our children received new sponsors while others received sponsor letters and were happy to write back to their sponsors. Thanks so much to our sponsors who not only send money but also take off time and write to the children. The children are always excited to hear from you as you tell them about yourself and knowing that there are friends outside Lulwanda who care and love them. They feel so good sharing their stories with you. For the new sponsors we are so grateful that you chose to sponsor a Child, demonstrating God’s Love towards the orphans. We are so grateful and may the good Lord God bless each of you.

Gertrude Namakoye writing a sponsor letter
Judith Namusoga writing a sponsor letter.

CONCLUSION

Thank you so much for being part of the Lulwanda family to bring great changes in the lives of these little ones. Every contribution you make towards the welfare of the Lulwanda Children has created a big impact and restored hope to these vulnerable Children. As we prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Christ, let us be reminded of what Christ said on the cross, “it is finished”. Salvation and restoration of the fallen man had been secured which is good news to all mankind. In the same way, this noble cause that the Lord put before you will be accomplished in future. It’s not an easy task but the Lord will ensure that it is fulfilled in the fullness of time. One more thank you so much and HAPPY EASTER TO YOU ALL!

In His Grace,
Paul Isabirye
Administrator-LCH

Filed Under: Administrator's Report, Blog

February 2022 Administrator’s Report

Once again I bring warm greetings from the family of Lulwanda Children’s Home and also be able to share with you the activities of the Month. Thank you for sparing time to read and get to know whatever is taking place at the Home. We appreciate you so much as this portrays the strong bond and love you have towards the orphans of Lulwanda.

MEDICAL

During February our Nurse received 113 patients and these were staff members and home children. The major illness was malaria, respiratory tract infection, bacterial infection, minor injuries, cough and flu. The most affected were Home Children with respiratory tract infection, cough and flu.

Kenneth Mbulamaye had a head injury while he was playing but thankfully the Nurse was able to carry out stitching and he is now well. We carried out the HIV test for all the Children and pregnancy test for the girls. All Children tested HIV negative apart from the new Child who was known to be positive and she’s already on HIV treatment. All the girls whom we tested for pregnancy test, results showed negative. To reduce malaria cases, we fumigated all the houses and we plan to buy new mosquito nets for all the Children.

Nurse Gloria Faith stitching Kenneth
Nurse Gloria testing the girls for HIV and pregnancy.

DISCIPLESHIP

We are humbled to always meet as home staff every Wednesday and share the word of God. During this moment we get to praise and worship God through songs and thereafter share the word of God. We also get the opportunity to encourage one another and how best can we raise the orphans that the Lord has entrusted in our care. Ryan Kelley has continued to share the word of God and songs through our different communication platforms. This has greatly benefited us the staff, Tendo Children and Lulwanda Alumni.

MINISTRY TRAINING

We attended a two-day regional consultation meeting and training on Child marriage and teenage pregnancy at a local hotel in Mbale. The National strategy to end Child marriage and teenage pregnancy was organized by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and social development in partnership with UNICEF and World Vision. During this meeting which was attended by the social workers and administrator, we were tasked to define a child, understanding of child marriage and teenage pregnancy and what is the problem. We were also tasked to identify the root causes and sub causes of child marriage and teenage in our community. We also identified the current gaps in policy and program interventions and then later came up with strategies and Actions to End Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancies. Above all there was emphasis on giving a second chance to the girl who has given birth to return to school so that they can be equipped with skills as a way of reducing labor exploitation due to lack of employment skills.

UNIVERSITY COMPLETION- ANTHONY WANZALA

Finally, our beloved Son Anthony Wanzala has completed a four year course of Water Engineering and God willing he will be graduating before this year ends. This young man is very faithful and made the course relatively cheaper for us to pay although it’s known as one of the expensive courses at the University. This has been possible by accepting to live a modest life by asking only things that matter at the university. As a University requirement before graduation, he designed and constructed a remote controlled solar powered water machine for removing water hyacinth which is the fastest growing aquatic weeds on water bodies in Uganda especially on Lake Victoria). His work impressed the panel of engineers which attracted officials from the Minister of science, Technology and innovation office HON. Monica Musenero to look at his prototype for possible implementation at water bodies.

Anthony (Second from Right) posing a photo with officials from the Minister’s office for science, technology and innovation.
Anthony standing beside his constructed remote controlled solar powered weed removal machine

SECONDARY VISITATION

Due to covid-19 restrictions and preventive measures, most schools in Uganda, especially in the central region, have barred parents from visiting the Children at school. We only had an opportunity for visitation at Tororo girls where we have five girls. (Marita Ajambo, Robinah Nalwanga, Joyce Khakasa Neboshe, Sarah Fatuma Namubya and Mary Namubi). The team of staff members traveled to check on our children at school and check on their performance plus sharing the love of Christ. They were all found in good health and provided for all the requirements needed. They had a meal together, prayed for them and encouraged them to concentrate and work hard for a better future.

Though there was no visitation day for St. Mary’s College, Lugazi. I personally drove to the school and delivered all the school supplies for Gift Naluboka and Norah Masai. I found them in good health, happy and working hard in class. The two girls promised to merit University admission. We are grateful to God for the provision and we expect the very best out of their studies and continue praying for them.

Norah and Gift at St.Mary’s College , Lugazi
Staff and Girls of TGS on Visitation Day.

TRADE SCHOOL

Three of our Children who completed certificates in trade schools have been attached to different people for hands-on skill training. Grace Egulansi is now attached to Jireh fashion and design for more skills. She has the passion to learn different fashion and design that are current and on market. So far she is doing great for the pieces she has made for display. Betty Namutosi is attached to Teacher Beth Muyama who has a saloon at Bugema trading center-Mbale. She is continuing with hair dressing. Hellen is at MTAC to learn hair dressing to learn the second skill. We are grateful that all are doing well and have started producing wonderful pieces of their work and we are grateful for the continued support. Timothy Wandiba is equally doing well with the course of electricity while Brian Webisa is doing plumbing at Benedict vocational institute Tororo.

Betty is perfecting how to plait hair.
Timothy Wandiba at his trade school carrying out a practical lesson about electricity
Grace is proud of her products.
Grace posing with the skirts she made.

LULWANDA PRIMARY SCHOOL (LPS)

A number of activities have taken place at LPS. First the teachers had an external workshop on abridged curriculum. This was organized by the Ministry of education to enable learners (students) to catch up with the teaching and learning after spending two years at home during the covid-19 lockdown. Teachers are now focusing on critical topics and learning outcomes along with psychosocial support. In the same way, teachers have discussed the performance of learners and remedial plus weekend lessons have been utilized to fill the gaps of lost time during the lockdown.

On another note, teachers have engaged learners in several practical lessons and this has made learning very interesting and understanding of concepts of topics has made it very easy. During the visitation day, some of the practical pieces were shown to the parents who were impressed by the teachers’ effort to help learners understand the science subject.

Our Children have been involved in the election of new prefects and a number of learners took interest to apply for the available posts and those who convinced the electorate were elected to different posts. The school elected a total of 25 prefects and Difasi Waniaye was elected the head prefect while Marion khainza was elected as the head girl. It was a hot contest of campaigns as Children exercised their right to vote for candidates of their choice. We always encourage our Children to campaign at school as a way of training them to become future leaders.

Emma Kintu carrying out a practical lesson for electricity.
LPS 2022 Prefects Body.

RESETTLEMENT OF MARY

With a lot of pain, we finally agreed to resettle Mary Nambozo who failed to recover from the post trauma and behavioral issues. We did all possible ways to take her to the psychiatrist doctors for checkup and counseling but all in vain. She continued to demand to be away from Lulwanda because she was used to the street life where she had the freedom to move whenever she wanted. She used to disappear through sneaking out of Lulwanda premises several times. This issue had been reported to the senior Probation officer Mbale district and to the Ministry of Gender, Labor and Social Development Kampala. Both agreed that Mary be resettled with any distant relative to avoid causing issues for the Home, and Lulwanda should continue supporting her in terms of skilling and basic needs while staying in the village. We all agreed on hair dressing since she had the desire and interest in hairdressing. She was handed over to the senior probation officer Bulambuli and resettled with a distant grandmother Rose Negesa of Mbigi village, Mbigi Parish, Bulegeni Sub County in Bulambuli district. This was done in the presence of the probation officer Mbale district, LCH Administrator, Social workers, Pastor Morris and Mama Aidah.

From left, Irene the social worker, the grandmother, Mary and Damalie the probation officer Bulambuli during the resettlement of Mary.

CONCLUSION

As I wind up with this report, I am so grateful for each of our donors and sponsors. It’s a great milestone since you started supporting this noble cause that the Almighty God put on your heart. Every day that passes by, we continue to experience the love, favor and mercy of God towards the Home. Thank you for being the channel through which God is using to bring great smiles and hope for the vulnerable and orphaned Children of Lulwanda. God bless!

In His Grace
Paul Isabirye
Administrator- LCH

Filed Under: Administrator's Report, Blog

January 2022 Administrator’s Report

Happy new year to you all and special greetings from the little Children of Lulwanda.  We are grateful to the Almighty God for letting us complete the year well amidst the challenges of covid-19. Praying that this new year 2022, all of us receive the Divine blessings and Mercy of God. Below are some of the activities of the month.

MEDICAL REPORT

January was overall a good month for Lulwanda health-wise.  There was an increase in malaria cases; however, all have been treated and recovered.  This month 116 patients were seen at the clinic on site.  It is staffed by our very talented and loving nurse, Gloria.  These patients are staff, close staff relatives, and home children.  This month 63 malaria tests were conducted, of which 37 were positive.  Efforts to reduce malaria (fumigation, sleeping under nets, etc.) are not always 100 percent effective but will be continually valuable in our efforts to keep malaria rates lower.  Fifty patients were seen for flu and cough.  The remaining patients were seen for relatively minor complaints.  The children are dewormed quarterly, which was done on January 25th.  In addition, oral polio vaccines were given to children under five years via a government program to combat polio.  We are unsure if the flu and cough rates were a common cold or Covid related, but now patients have recovered, and cases are decreasing in Uganda.  Thank you for your continued prayers and support of the children and their health.

Nurse Faith Gloria getting blood samples from Mary Nambozo for malaria testing.

DISCIPLESHIP REPORT

Discipleship has been a combined effort at home, on-site, and digital (on line) this month.  Children have now safely reported back from social bonding and continued with discipleship as previously conducted.  Daily devotionals and songs are sent out digitally, with Bible studies sent out once weekly.  Within our digital platform, we studied the life of Abraham and how God wants us to respond to His Word.  Our youth hunger for the Lord and know Him through His eternal Word.  May this year be as fruitful as the last, for we desire not mere numbers but hearts changed and transformed by the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Glory be to the eternal Triune God.  Please continue to pray for our children’s hearts and that the Holy Spirit is at work in their hearts.  Pray for Pastor Martin as he resumes his teaching at home and for God to clarify the lessons and paths that He desires Pastor to teach this year.  We thank you in Christ.

Pastor Martin leading the staff during bible study

REPORTING OF KIDS BACK FROM SOCIAL BONDING

All our Children went to their respective village last month – December 2021 – for social bonding and came back to Lulwanda at the beginning of this month. It’s a requirement by the government of Uganda that all Children go back to their clan members for social bonding.  When they come back the social workers always interact with Children to get more information about how the village life was, how they were treated while with the clan members, challenges, and even some interesting stories that they would love to share. However, on the day Children reported back to Lulwanda, it was unfortunate and sad to hear that Mary Nambozo had run away from home and went roaming around the village in the trading centre. Reasons for running away are not clear but this young girl has a long history of living a street life after she was abandoned by her family members. It was by God’s Grace that we rescued her from this kind of life and brought her to Lulwanda. With the help of the Senior Probation Officer Bulambuli together with our social workers she was brought back to Lulwanda. Be praying for this young girl for the Lord to take control of her negative thoughts.

Social Worker Sylvia receives Mary Mugala together with a relative from social bonding.

OPENING UP OF SCHOOLS

With the reducing number of covid-19 cases, the government fully opened up the economy and schools have been allowed to operate fully. All school going Children have reported back to school. It was a joyous day at Lulwanda Primary School when we opened up and our Lulwanda Children were able to interact with community Children. Both teachers and students were excited to meet again and the first day was characterised by having remedial lessons, playing and having fun. We are glad that all our teachers reported back to school, because at most schools in Uganda (especially private schools) some teachers have abandoned teaching and currently are doing private business.

Headteacher of LPS addressing kids on the first day of reporting.

RENOVATION OF NURSERY SCHOOL AT LPS

We received funds to renovate the nursery school which was in bad shape. Renovation included extension of the Top class by breaking down the wall of the small store, installing a new floor and veranda for the middle class, and painting of the whole two blocks both inside and outside. Through P&A contractors, right now the school is shining and ready for use. We are grateful to the US Board for the provision of the funds.

Renovated Nursery School (LPS)

SECONDARY REPORTING

All our Secondary School Children have reported back to school and it was just excitement after a long period staying at home. Students right from Nursery up to University have reported to different schools and higher institutions of learning. I am happy to report that we have cleared all the tuition payments owed.  We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the almighty God and to GICF for the provision and support rendered to the children.  Many of the community Children delayed to report back to their respective school and some failed because most schools wanted full payment of the tuition to be able to meet the school demands and debts which they had incurred during covid-19 period.

Left -Right. Marita, Mary, Robinah, Sarah Fatuma and Joyce on the day of reporting to Tororo Girls’ School

Back to school shopping — senior five

GRADUATION

We are delighted to have three students graduate from Miken Vocational Institute with certificates in different fields. Betty acquired skills in hairdressing, Wangota Michael and Mukasa Yusuf both qualified in Commercial Art and Design. They have been working hard to ensure that they get the practical knowledge and skills required for them to join the employment sector.  We are grateful to the almighty God who enabled them to complete the course and still praying that they get employed in the shortest time possible.

On another note, Hellen Namulinda and Nadongo Egulansi graduated with certificates after a six-month program of study at MTAC Mbale campus. Both qualified in tailoring work and are requesting that they enrol for another six-month program in hairdressing so as to enable them set up their own business. 

We hope that such Children who qualify with such skills in different fields can be potential candidates to benefit from the entrepreneurship funding after fully attending and completing the curriculum for financial management at Lulwanda. Once given and equipped with all the necessary tools, they can be self-employed and do better.

L-R Mike Wangota, Betty Namutosi, and Yusuf Mukasa on the day of graduation.

CAREER GUIDANCE AND ADMISSIONS

A number of our children who sat for Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) and Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) were admitted to different institutions of learning. This calls for career guidance on what subjects and courses to take in order to have the right career path.  Norah Masai and Gift Naluboka, both with great potential, have joined St. Mary’s college Lugazi which offers BCM (Biology, Chemistry and Maths) and MEA (Maths, Economics and Art) respectively. We are very much optimistic that Norah will be the first Lulwanda Child to become a Doctor. She is very smart and her desire is to become a neurosurgeon. Be praying for this young girl that her dreams may come to light. Marion Neboshe, Madinah Akello, Joyce Kibone and Betty Kisakye who sat for PLE joined Mbale Secondary School while Willy Wamono,  Nadunga and  Nambozo have joined S.5 in the same school.

Others who sat for UCE last year have joined trade school and are pursuing different courses.  Jackline Ngwabe is taking Hotel Catering and Management at Christian Child care Project (CCP), and Wanatsofu Vincent is doing plumbing at CCP.

Meanwhile, Timothy Wandiba and Brian Webisa are studying at Benedictine Vocational Institute – Tororo offering Electrical Installation system and Maintenance and Plumbing respectively. Thank you very much for your support and praying that all will succeed and be able to sustain themselves.

Norah and Gift on the reporting day at St.Mary’s College, Lugazi

TENDO NEW ENTRANTS

 This month, we have four Children that have exited Lulwanda Home and Joined Lulwanda- Tendo for the next two years. While at Lulwanda – Tendo they are trained on different skills in preparation for the final reintegration with the clan members. Here at Lulwanda – Tendo Children are given spiritual nourishment, allowed to go shopping and be able to learn bargaining skills, and also be trained on independent living while dealing with people in the community. All the new entrants are given orientation for successful completion of the two years. Anyone who falls short of the requirements will be requested to exit Lulwanda -Tendo. This year’s new entrants include; Joel Gwapa, Phoebe Namono, Samuel Buyinza and Davis Namonye Davis.  Each of these young adults receives some items which include towels, blankets, mattresses, pillows, buckets, basins, bedsheets and mosquito nets among others to help make their stay comfortable at Lulwanda – Tendo. We are grateful for yet another opportunity given to them to stay with the Lulwanda – Tendo family with full support.

Left – Right Samwiri, Davis, Phoebe and Joel arriving at Lulwanda – Tendo and being welcomed by Mary Namubi

ANNUAL SHOPPING

It’s always a huge expenditure this month as we do annual shopping for the Children. The social workers together with the house mothers come up with the budget and a list of items to be purchased and some of the items purchased include; Clothes, shoes, sandals, mattresses, bed sheets, blankets, bags and scholastic materials among others. The secondary school students are given money in the company of the social workers and house mothers to purchase clothes and shoes of their own choice and other small personal effects which is always an exciting moment.

Mama Christine has continued to purchase the weekly shopping for food and she is doing a tremendous job of cutting down the LCH food budget.

Mama Christine paying the seller.

Some of the children receiving scholastic items after annual shopping

Vests and pants for the Secondary School boys

School bags

Secondary Kids during the annual  shopping for clothes, shoes and other personal effects

Secondary school personal effects annual shopping

Mama Christine purchasing irish potatoes and carrots

Mama Christine purchasing cleaning supplies

TGN (The Good Neighbour)

Pastor David through the good neighbour program purchased scholastic materials which were given to the community Children. It was a joyous moment as Our Children interacted with the community Children and shared the word of God and a meal at the end of the day. Counselling of the community and Lulwanda Children was done by the Lulwanda staff together with Pastor David. A call was made to put God first in order to succeed in life.  Among the items purchased included scholastic materials, uniform,  soap and smearing jelly.

Ketty Kakayi with her TGN friend

Emmanuel Kintu with his TGN friend

CONCLUSION

Thank you so much for standing with us. All of this has been possible because of your kind and generous heart for the good of the orphans. Once without hope, now there is hope for a better future knowing that there are great friends across the globe who love and wish them well. Be blessed dear friends of Lulwanda!

In His Grace

Paul Isabirye

Administrator – LCH 

Filed Under: Administrator's Report, Blog

December 2021 Administrator’s Report

Warm greetings from Lulwanda. As we come to the end of the year 2021, surely we are grateful for standing with us in hard times and above all to the Almighty God for His provision and protection amidst the challenges of COVID-19. All our Children are doing well and have continued to grow in the knowledge and fear of the Almighty God. Most of them have now grown up and what a great Joy to see our first group of Children graduating and serving the community, something that was not expected if it was NOT for you the friends of Lulwanda. Thank you so much and let God bless the work of your hands.

MEDICAL REPORT

God has blessed us once again with a wonderful year of health and safety.  Despite the global pandemic along with general illnesses and injuries that occur when you have many children, God has provided.  All our praise goes to Him alone for sustaining His children.  This month we saw 37 total patients between children, staff, and their eligible relatives.  There were a total of 15 malaria cases (out of 27 tested) and treated.  13 patients were treated for general flu and cough, and other minor illnesses.  This month all children and staff were given deworming treatment on December 8th.  We thank God for another year of providential health for His Children’s Home.

DISCIPLESHIP REPORT

Discipleship continues but has been dialled back to mainly digital this month.  Most children outside of the new children who were brought in are on home leave (social bonding) with their clans.  Upon their return we plan to continue with discipleship as previously conducted.  Daily devotionals and songs are sent out digitally with Bible studies sent out once weekly.  Our youth have a hunger for the Lord and knowing Him through His eternal Word.  This has been one of the most productive years spiritually at Lulwanda.  Over 40 children repented and believed in the Gospel, and God brought over 20 youth to pledge to remain pure until marriage all by the power of His Word.  Glory be to the Lord.

SOCIAL BONDING

It’s a government policy to send Children to be with their clan members at the end of every year for social bonding for a period of three weeks. Apart from the new kids we brought this very month, all our Children are currently staying with the clan members for Christmas celebrations. Last year 2020, our Children remained at home due to COVID-19 lockdown and other restrictions. Social bonding helps the Children to have a strong attachment with the identified clan member whom they can stay with after the reintegration.

CHRISTMAS PARTY

Before sending our Children to the village for social bonding, we had the Christmas party where we prepared for them a delicious meal. We had games throughout the day and the Children were also served with ice cream. The Children were happy and enjoyed the day.

NEW CHILDREN

The long-awaited new Children finally arrived at Lulwanda on December 7th 2021. The new children include Trevor Mulongo, Keneth Mbulamaye, Haruna Magode, Musa Kowu, Carol Naula, Gift Logose, Getrude Namakoye, Brian Wawuswa, Judith Namusoga and William Gadala. It was all Joy and excitement when the new kids were ushered to the big family of Lulwanda. You could see big smiles on the faces of the new Children wondering what could be happening in their lives. They have already experienced the love and care from their sisters, brothers and staff members which they were missing while in the village. We welcomed all of them with special songs and flash cards with exciting messages and cartoons. Each new kid was presented with a beautiful locally made bouquet of flowers which had sweets inside. All the new Children were assigned to different new houses and the house mothers were so happy to have the new children join this beautiful loving home.

FINANCIAL MEETING

We held the financial meeting with the financial training coordinator Hassan Wabutwa, Irene and Olive (the social workers) and Anthony Wanzala. The purpose of the meeting was to hear feedback from the staff members about the first financial training which was attended by Chairman Larry of the USA Board. Second was to lay down strategies for the future financial training of all the Lulwanda staff members and the Lulwanda Alumni. The meeting was attended by all the staff members and Lulwanda young adults at Tendo. In this meeting, it was agreed to start up a savings group at the beginning of next year 2022.  It was a good moment to hear from each individual what they had been able to practice out of the knowledge that they received from the first financial training. It was so fruitful to know that members were very positive about the training and with this, we will be organising for the second training.

On the same occasion, I had an opportunity to speak to the staff members who had taken time without coming to Lulwanda due to the lockdown restrictions. A number of issues and updates were communicated since the second lockdown in June 2021.  Among the issues communicated was resuming of work by all staff members on January 3rd 2022, receiving of new children, social bonding, teachers being ready to guide and counsel the kids and create a positive impact when schools re- open next year 2022 and graduation of our first University children among others.

SHOPPING FOR NEW CHILDREN

Our social workers together with the house mothers bought a number of essential items for the new Children. The social workers came up with a budget which was fully funded by the US Board. Items that were purchased for each child include clothes, bathing soap & sponge, Vaseline, tooth brushes, shoes, sandals, bedsheets, play materials, inner panties, and mosquito nets among others. Thank you so much for the support given to make the lives of these Children better.

UNIVERSITY AND TERTIARY STUDENTS BACK HOME

Most of our children who reported to school in November 2021 after the government reopened Universities and trade schools are breaking off for the Christmas holiday. It is a short holiday but worth celebrating the birth of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. We have sent them transport money and they will be travelling back home by themselves since they are in higher institutions of learning.

ONLINE STUDY FOR SECONDARY CHILDREN

The online learning lessons for Mbale Secondary School kids were interrupted for one week as they were going to the village for social bonding. They will resume normal studies when schools reopen up in January 2022.  St. Mary’s Lugazi Children who are joining S.5 next year 2022 (Gift Naluboka and Norah Masai) will continue learning even while in their village since we purchased new smart phones for them.  The LPS Children will resume studies on January 10th 2022 when schools reopen officially. 

SOLAR POWER SYSTEM

We have replaced the damaged solar panels with new ones, plus replaced ten (10) new batteries. As for now power at Lulwanda children’s home is very stable and we have light throughout the night. Our big gratitude to all our friends for always supporting us.

CONCLUSION

As the year 2021 comes to an end, we thank the Almighty who graciously loves us and has given us another chance to continue serving Him. We thank all the friends of Lulwanda for supporting us for the past years and above all accepting the Lulwanda Children as if they were part of your families. Great thanks to the US Board leadership for the wise leadership in guiding us in the better management of the home. Words may not explain how grateful we are but surely from the bottom of our hearts you are the reason our Children have a great smile on their faces because the future is now bright. Thank you so much and HAPPY NEW YEAR 2022!

In His Grace

Paul Isabirye

LCH-Administrator

Filed Under: Administrator's Report, Blog

November 2021 Administrator’s Report

Hello our beloved friends! I bring warm greetings from the little ones and the staff members of the Lulwanda family. We are grateful to each of you for your kind heart which brings a great smile to our Children. We are grateful to the Almighty God Who Has continued being faithful to all of us. We appreciate His Blessings, Provision, Care and Mercy which enabled us to push through. Below are the activities of November.

MEDICAL REPORT

This month we saw minor illnesses and had no significant medical issues at Lulwanda.  The total number of patients seen (comprising LCH home children, staff & their immediate families) was sixty in number.  We saw an uptick in malaria rates as our on-site nurse performed thirty-six MRDT’s, twenty of those were positive.  The patients were treated and have fully recovered without complications.  In addition, we had eighteen cases of flu and cough treated on site.  Our on-site nurse treated seven cases of ringworm.  We had one minor injury and various other minor aches and pains that were treated on-site.  We did stitch one patient who has fully recovered from an injury sustained from the metal swings.  This patient (a home child) received a tetanus shot.  Overall, we give glory to our great God and Savior for all His provision.  He faithfully continues holding us all together (Col. 1:17) in His hands.  Please continue to pray for health and safety at Lulwanda and that a COVID resurgence will not occur in Uganda.

DISCIPLESHIP REPORT

Discipleship continues to be the cornerstone of all that Lulwanda focuses on first and foremost.  Pastor Martin has been very active in ensuring that group Bible studies occur communally in large and small group settings.  Tendo Bible study has continued to be fruitful as we had to move to an earlier time to accommodate curfew.  The sessions generally last around 1 ½ hours or 30 minutes of praise and worship, then the lesson and discussions.  We finished the book of James this past month.  Daddy Tendo will continue to be provided with discipleship materials to continue this from home.

UPDATE ON KELLEY MISSIONARY FAMILY

As many of you know, the Kelley family is in a time of transition back to the United States.  They will continue to serve as missionaries from the US and travel to and from Uganda at least twice a year.  Ryan will continue to be involved in sponsor letter coordination with Sylvia and provide daily devotions and weekly discipleship material for Tendo and staff.  Ryan left for the United States on November 27th, and the rest of the Kelley family is present in Uganda.  Megan is still involved in counseling and working with Tendo, furnishing the homes with curtains, Facebook updates, and Lulwanda as necessary while Ryan is away.  Ryan will return in February, and the family plans to move back to the United States in March.  While they will physically not be with us in person, we are glad they will continue to be a part of the Lulwanda family and involved heavily.  Medical coordination and supply orders are still being sent to Ryan for him to oversee the ordering and procurement. Our on-site nurse has been in communication with him for direction when needed.

1st UNIVERSITY GRADUATION OF LULWANDA CHILDREN

We are grateful to the Almighty God that we held our first University graduation ceremony for our alumni Children. Mercy, Sylvia Doreen and Allen made us proud as they graduated with Bachelor’s degrees in different fields.  Mercy graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Art, Doreen graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration while Sylva and Allen both graduated in Social Work and Social Administration. We invited all the Lulwanda Alumni, relatives of the graduates, the local management committee and the government officials to the ceremony.

Currently Lulwanda has employed Mercy as the program coordinator and Sylvia as the social worker. Allen is working with microfinance as a loans officer. Meanwhile be praying for Doreen that she gets employed very soon.  Be praying for Ivan Kuloba who missed out the graduation due to retakes and also failure to submit the research report. This function was a source of inspiration to our Children as most of them have got a positive mindset of working hard for a better future.

FINANCIAL TRAINING

 Our Social workers and Anthony completed the financial training facilitated by Virgil from the USA. The purpose of the training is to have financial knowledge in business and increase our savings to live a better life and above all honor God with our money. This coming month before we break off for the Christmas season, the trainees will conduct the financial workshop which will be attended by the staff members and young adults of Lulwanda. They will also invite the Lulwanda Alumni for the same training next year 2022.

 RESETTLED CHILDREN

We held a meeting with resettled Children who had discipline issues. Following the outcry from such Children who had not followed the Lulwanda policies and showing no signs of repentance, the Lulwanda Management team together with Pastor Morris met them to hear their concerns. All their views were noted by the social workers and we agreed that we shall address their concerns case by case after the approval from the Local management committee and the US Board.

VACCINATION OF TENDO YOUNG ADULTS

As the government opened up trade school and University, it is a requirement for all students above the age of 18 years to be vaccinated against COVID -19 before reporting to the institutions.  We had to adhere to the government advice and mobilize our young adults at Tendo to receive the first Jab. We brought the health worker who vaccinated them after the sensitization and now they are waiting to receive the second Jab when its due.

CARE ORDERS FOR NEW CHILDREN AND SHOPPING

We are in the final stage of bringing the new Children before we break off for the Christmas season. The social workers have done the shopping of items like clothes and beddings for the new Children. We submitted the paperwork to the Senior Probation and Welfare Officer to secure the care orders. We are waiting for the endorsement and approval from the court first and then we shall take them for thorough medical checkup at the hospital before coming to Lulwanda. We are eagerly waiting for the day when the new Children shall join the Lulwanda family and be relieved of the stress as most of them are Child headed families.

TRADE SCHOOL RE-OPENING

The trade schools finally opened up this November after a long period of lockdown. The continuing students and new entrants have reported and are having physical lessons at their respective institutions. Brian Webisa and Timothy Wandiba joined Benedictine Vocational Training and Production Center in Tororo for the award of a certificate in plumbing and electrical installation respectively. Vincent, Jackeline and Alafat joined the Christian Childcare project and Miken vocational institute for plumbing, hotel management and commercial Art and design respectively.  They were so excited to report to school and pursue courses of their interest.

SENIOR FOUR CHILDREN

We had a joint meeting with the students who sat for senior four (S4) this year in 2021 in guiding and counseling how to make the right choice depending on the performance, ability and interest. Those joining A-Level needed career guidance on selection of subjects to be offered at high school. This usually should be in line with the child’s ambition so that they can work hard and achieve their set goals.  Furthermore, even those that are joining trade schools were also guided well and they are all happy and comfortable with the choices made.

S/NCHILD’S NAMECOMBINATIONCOURSEINSTITUTION
1NORAH MASAIBCM/ICT BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY, MATH   ST. MARY’S LUGAZI
2GIFT NALUBOKAMEA/ICT MATH ECONOMICS ART ST. MARY’S LUGAZI
3DONAH NADUNGAGENT ART/ ICT GEOGRAPHY, ENTREPRENEURSHIP FINE ART MBALE SS
4PHEOBE NAMBOZOHLD/ICT HISTORY, LITERATURE, DIVINITY MBALE SS
5JOEL WAMONOMEA / ICT MATH, ECONOMICS, FINE ART MBALE SS
6BRIAN WEBISA CERTIFICATE IN PLUMBINGBENEDICTINE VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND PRODUCTION CENTER
7TIMOTHY WANDIBA CERTIFICATE IN ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONBENEDICTINE VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND PRODUCTION CENTER
8ALAFAT GIZAMBALI CERTIFICATE IN COMMERCIAL ART AND DESIGNMIKEN VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE
9VICENT WANANSOFU CERTIFICATE IN PLUMBINGCHRISTIAN CHILDCARE PROJECT
10JACKLINE NGWABE CERTIFICATE IN CATERING AND HOTEL MGTCHRISTIAN CHILD CARE PROJECT

ADMISSIONS FOR SENIOR ONE STUDENTS

We were also able to secure admissions for the children that sat for their primary leaving examination (Marion, Betty, Joyce and Madinah). These four Children have been admitted at Mbale Secondary School and will start schooling at the beginning of January 2022. They will be joining the rest of the brothers and sisters already at Mbale SS.

LMC MEETING

The Local Management Committee held an end of year meeting in which a number of issues were discussed. In this meeting the budget for 2022 was discussed, passed and forwarded to the US Board for discussion and final approval. The budget is high as we have a big number of Children entering secondary, trade school and University. This means an increase in the tuition payments and school requirements. We realized an increase in the household items and gas as the prices are continuing to rise up due to the effects of COVID-19. We are praying for God’s provision in financing the budget.

CHRISTMAS CLOTHES

We thank God for the continued provision from our sponsors and donors towards the purchase of the Christmas clothes. Each child has already received new clothes and a pair of shoes for Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you so much for bringing a big smile on the face of the children.

CONCLUSION

We thank God for the opportunity to serve Lulwanda and above all for working with great men and women of God who support to bring hope and Joy to the vulnerable Children. Every support makes a big change in the lives of these kids. Thank you once again and wishing you a MERRY CHRISTMAS.  May God bless you all!

In His Grace

Paul Isabirye

Administrator-LCH

Filed Under: Administrator's Report, Blog

October 2021 Administrator’s Report

Dear Friends

It’s yet another moment of bringing warm greetings from the big family of Lulwanda. As you catch up with the life and activities of October, we are always grateful for your prayers and support given that enable us to provide parental care and Christ-like love to our beloved Children. All our Children are doing well despite the fearful pandemic which has claimed many lives of our beloved ones, God Has been faithful and protective to our Children. We have the reason to worship and Glorify His Name. Allow me to point out key activities of October.

MEDICAL

Medically, all is well at Lulwanda.  Most of our full-time staff have been fully vaccinated and COVID SOPs are enforced.  We had no suspected cases of COVID-19 or any related illnesses this month.  Overall, we saw a total of fifty-four patients overall during the month of October.  This number is composed of LCH children, staff, and staff’s children.  As always, malaria continues to be the leading cause of patients coming for treatment, although relatively positive rates are low and those who test positive are treated early.  We saw twenty-six patients with suspected malaria and had ten test positive and sixteen test negative.  It is currently the rainy season but use of nets is heavily emphasized.  We saw 19 cases of flu (dry and productive cough) which were all minor and treated.  Eight patients were treated for ringworm or other fungal infections.  The other cases ranged from abdominal pain/cramps, minor headaches, etc.  God continues to provide for the health of Lulwanda and for that, we are extremely grateful.

DISCIPLESHIP

Discipleship continues daily and we are continuing to see both young and older children desire to know God more intimately.  Daily devotions are held on site (LCH) and at Tendo, as well as sent digitally to all young adults who are at campus or unable to attend.  Weekly Bible studies have restarted since the lockdown and worship gatherings have been lifted, and we love seeing our youth have a hunger to know God’s word.  Please be praying that God will lead us to a prayer life that intimately knows what we need to be focusing on, as each child is different, and there are many topics to cover.  Worship and devotions take place both in small groups and in large groups weekly as well.  The major emphasis on campus is evangelism to those who don’t know Christ and training up disciples for those who have repented and believed.  Thank you for your continued love, support, and prayers.

TEAM AROUND THE CHILD (TAC) MEETING:

The social workers visited and assessed the homes of the four children (Davis Namonye, Phoebe Namono, Joel Gwapa and Samwiri Buyinza) who are set for the official reintegration in December 2021. All the four Children are 17 years old and as such they are  young adults who are not eligible to stay at Lulwanda. Reports were compiled, submitted to the TAC committee and all our four Children were recommended to explore Tendo for the next two years before the final reintegration with the clan members. It was a great experience for Sylvia to attend and learn what goes on in the meeting as a new social worker.

APPROVAL OF THE NEW CHILDREN

We are grateful to the US Board for the approval of the eleven (11) vulnerable and total orphans to be rescued next month. We are working hand in hand with the senior probation officer to secure the care orders before coming to Lulwanda.  On the arrival day, we shall take the new Children to the hospital for medical checkup to be aware of any health complications. We really appreciate all our donors and sponsors that God uses to support us and be able to rescue such children so as to bring them up in the fear of the Lord and have a bright future.

SECONDARY SCHOOL

The Secondary kids from S.1, S2, S3, and S5 are studying online. We are using the available laptops FOR the Children at Lulwanda, while at Tendo the Children are using smartphones. The children are happy that they can at least have some reading and interaction with the teachers as we wait for the official opening of schools in January 2022.

UNIVERSITY

Our four (4) that sat for Senior six exams all passed and have joined the University. Carol Naula scored 10 points and doing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Nooru Watera scored 9 points and is doing a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Social Administration, Musoba Abel scored 15 points and doing a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics and Economics and Mutsoshi John scored 15 points and doing a bachelor’s degree in Law. Carol and Nooru have joined UCU Mbale while Abel and John joined UCU Mukono. All have reported and started serious lectures.  Be praying for Anthony Wanzala who is doing Bachelor’s degree in Water Engineering and Naster Chebet doing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration will be completed by February 2022.

HOME LEARNING

We agreed as Lulwanda Management Team that we will conduct home learning for only Lulwanda (Home) children. The lessons are being conducted from the hope dorm home since the school is not officially opened. The Children have been promoted to the next classes since the previous syllabus was completed in the first lockdown. The head teacher together with the teaching staff are conducting home learning from P.5-P.7 while the lower classes are just receiving study materials and assignments which are done by the Children and submitted for marking. We have four teachers coming daily to teach P5, P6 and P.7 while the head teacher is helping to teach phonics from Nursery-P3.

ROKE TELECOM

We hosted Roke telecom as they were celebrating the 15th anniversary and decided to come to Lulwanda and bless us with items like rice, posho, sugar, salt, soap, liquid soap, sanitizer, sanitary pads, balls and two new sewing machines. The day was colorful as the Children were served with breakfast, lunch and above all the Children enjoyed the different games with the visitors.

CONCLUSION

In Galatians 6:9 says ‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time, we shall reap a harvest if we do not give up’ Thank you for being there for Lulwanda and standing with us at all difficult times. May the good Lord bless!

In His Grace

Paul Isabirye

Administrator

LCH

Filed Under: Administrator's Report, Blog

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