The Short and Sweet:
In a few weeks I am moving to Uganda! A close Ugandan friend and I are going to form a nonprofit. Our goal is to help vulnerable children impacted by poverty, death, or family and community structure break downs. Due to these circumstances, numerous children have ended up in orphanages who are not actually orphans. One of our objectives will be reunification of families through economic empowerment of vulnerable peoples. We would work with parents to find stable income so that they can support their households again. During this entire process we will teach them about God and His love and sacrifice for every one of us.
The Longer Version:
As most people know, orphanages are commonly built in third-world countries. However, many do not realize the effects orphanages have on the surrounding communities. (I am included in this as I have wanted to build an orphanage since Middle School). Parents who are struggling to provide food and other basic necessities give their children away in hopes of a better life. The children DO have food on their plates and most go to school. Yet these children grow up labeled as “orphans” without a family structure. A great option for these children would be adoption, however, most of these orphanages do not have legal barring to adopt.
At this point, I say enough is enough! Let’s empower these parents with job training and micro-loans so they are able to support their families. These children will then be raised as children (and not orphans) in their own loving home.
So please join me in prayer as I start off on this challenging journey. I know this is what God has planned for me and I know that I am not alone.
Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
Isaiah 43:1 -5
Emily in Uganda 