Promise came into my life as a suicidal 13 year old struggling to cope with the aftermath of gang rape at knifepoint. She and her sister Fortunate call me “Mother” because I have used your contributions to feed them and pay their school fees, and have given my time to nurture them.
My last trip to Swaziland revealed to me the reason why 65% of the infected population of the country is female. Only one of the rapists was found because someone pointed him out to the police, and he did just a few months in prison for his crime. While I was there, he was back in the neighborhood stalking.
I met both girls in the dirty, matchbox-size space where they lived. An army of roaches boldly crisscrossed the wall going undisturbed about their business. The girls informed me that a steady stream of men came and went at all hours, and sometimes they were asked to leave while the men were there.
I could see a disaster waiting to happen.
With the help of some elderly women in New York, I had the girls transported to a boarding school and registered them they had school fees, uniforms, books and health checks which required follow up treatment. I was able to cover the bills but had a $695 deficit. I asked myself the question. Can we afford to keep two teenage girls in school when there is such great need for food and basic support from children not yet in their teens who are living in high risk situations?
The girls are talented and eager to learn. Each time I do my “Mom” lecture, I realize how odd it is for a child to grow up with no one to affirm value, and no boundaries to protect them. Why can’t they understand that a young man has no right to kick you viciously because he does not like something you said or did…
That a teacher should not beat you on the bum till your skin is discolored and tell you he felt like it…
That you should not be whipped because you are good at sports but don’t feel up to playing …
This month, we received close to 35 new children who need sponsorship assistance to survive.
Can we afford to keep Promise and Fortunate in school?
Can we afford NOT TO?
The answer lies with you. Your contributions enable us to make humane choices. In the coming months, I will do more to inform you of the many ways the lives of these children are changing …because of you. Donate now. Let us be the hope these children seek. God bless you!
Cynthia
