Community Awareness

SO, WHAT ARE WE AIMING FOR?

Awareness of the problem. We know that Uganda is not the only country in the world where children are suffering. We know there are hundreds (if not thousands) of worthy causes in this world, and indeed in our own country. However, God has invited us to work with Him in this area.

We are not asking for donations as such. We aim to raise awareness of the plight of these children. First of all, among the women of our church family (Seaforth Baptist), then to our friends and families, to our local schools, our communities and beyond. Even to other countries where we have contacts.

We are gathering together resources and ideas to use for fundraising. Our aim is to build a home initially ($19,000 - more than achievable), but there are many projects associated with Watoto and it may be that as we raise awareness, other women may have a heart for different aims. That is God's work.

Vikki pointed out to us the difference between aid and development. It was new to Carmela and myself and it may be interesting to you:

AID - is a 'hand out' to people who can't help themselves, i.e. the children orphaned by AIDS, in fear of being abducted, not having enough to eat or access to education.

DEVELOPMENT - is a 'hand up' to people who haven't got advantages such as being able to access loans to help them set up a business so that they can become self sufficient, education so that they can get jobs and change the future of their country.

It is no good just preaching to these people and then leaving them to it. Of course, we have to pray for them, but we also have to be proactive. We have been shown that God is working in Uganda - He has invited us to join him. Search your heart, listen, watch - is He inviting you too?