Update on Zimbabwe

Children and teacher at Clare School

It has been a long while since we have updated the news about our work in Zimbabwe, which the very generous contributions of many continue to make possible.

General:
1. $5,000 was sent [mid-August] to UMCOR earmarked “Food for Zimbabwe” This is to help the efforts of various agencies who are attempting to alleviate the severe food shortage millions are facing there.

At Old Mutare:
2. During Term Two—May to June—the fee payments, feeding programs, and salary supports continued as usual. Extras included a very major purchase of textbooks and school supplies that the inflation-strapped primary school had not been able to provide.
3. Also, with Naboth Maramba taking charge, the sponsored high school students are now actively supported in their needs and have received uniforms, shoes, and supplies. Although retired, Naboth’s great heart and concern for children getting an education continues to be an inspiration!
4. A vacation feeding program operated from August 20 for those coming to the primary school early to help with various work projects. The two regular feedings—breakfast and breaktime will begin when Term Three starts in early September
5.100 girls and 113 boys at Hartzell Primary are receiving uniforms for Term Three.
6. 401 primary students will continue to have their fees paid this term.
7. $500 has been donated towards getting a woodworking program started.

At Clare School:

8. Contractors are working out the details that will put a roof on the new two-room classroom block at Clare School before the rains begin in a couple of months. Five classes are meeting outdoors.
9. We are told that the library room is being actively used.
10. 30 three-seat desks were built for children to use.
11.120 uniforms and 40+ pairs of new shoes went to needy children in May.
12. The pump for the borehole [well] was repaired. The school had been without clean water for some weeks and there was no money to import the needed parts. Now there is enough water that the school plans to begin an irrigated garden for food.
13. Consultation is underway to see what more can be done here, as there have been substantial special gifts for work at Clare.

This is not a complete list, but it gives the flavor of the wonderful accomplishments made possible through the generosity and support of dozens of people! Some have been contributing regularly since we began in 1999, while others have just recently heard and become involved. Blessings on all of you! You make it possible!

The two of us will be in Zimbabwe from October 31 to November 23. The work continues!