Pandemics, like other crises, often result in the breakdown of social infrastructure and services, leading to health, transport, food, sanitation, legal, security and other governance structures being temporarily contracted or becoming dysfunctional. This may result in increased exposure of women and children to human rights abuses, including exposure to gender-based violence.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated and added yet another layer of vulnerability to an already dire web of vulnerabilities of girls (and some boys) in our Buikwe Community. Critically, gender equality and girls’ multidimensional vulnerability have been accentuated to an unprecedented level. The pandemic has triggered major concerns about the potential reversal of the strides achieved over the years towards gender equality and human development in our Country Uganda.
What this means, is that we are thinking of temporarily having to reintegrate all children who are specifically NOT under our organization’s care (most of them in Katunda Community) and reach out to their families with food reliefs.
The volunteer Teachers, community leaders and BLCDF staff have done a wonderful job in ensuring that as we normally reach out to our own Children; we at least consider helping out the non-registered children with Education Packs, Clothing items and Words of encouragement.
We will also REACH out to the ones in the far places and try to make rehabilitation plans when it is safe to do so. Pray for these children while they are in their usual homes and pray that their families will be willing to let us complete their rehab plans when we can. Pray that we can possibly reach out to them (their families) with Covid relief food items like Posho, Sugar, Beans and Soap
For our staff and volunteers, we are thinking of providing a bonus for food and essentials they may need during this crisis. The markets are running out of staples, and fresh markets are closed by order, so they will need to stock up on some non-perishable food items.
We thank God we are very alive and everyone is following their community’s guidelines for safety.
We shall not give up!!
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labour is not in vain.”
1 Corinthians 15:58
Costs of ministry remain, and we rely upon the Lord and the generosity of our supporters to continue in our work. Our staff, Volunteers and Children still need your support! If you are able during these tough times, and would consider donating (or maintaining your current support), we would be ever so thankful! And as always, we greatly need your prayers!
Visit barnabaslegacy.org for further information and be sure to check out some of our photos on the Gallery page: https://barnabaslegacy.org/gallery/
Blessings
Wamala Steven (Founder)
On behalf of the BLCDF Leadership Team