African Orphans

Orphans have it rough in Africa. There are no social systems to care for their needs so relatives try to accommodate them in their usually overburdened homes. As a result, since school is not free, few of them have opportunity for education, vocational training, making an income, or even buying basic necessities.

A ReachGlobal project called GlobalFingerprints has been set up to help the most needy. It's a sponsorship program to help orphans get into a local school, have needed supplies, clothes, food, etc. It's not a residential orphanage, but an assistance program. It's unique in that it is run by local churches, so followup is natural and indigenous.

One of the pastor's on my trip made a special visit to "his" orphan today. What a joyful encounter!! He left her with a new flashlight (very handy in an area that has no electricity), a toothbrush, some school supplies, a packet of tuna (I'm not really sure what's behind that), and pictures of his family. Isn't that great?!!