I have not the words to even begin this update, but I will get rolling here shortly. May each of you be blessed greatly in this season of reminding us of what life really means. I have attached an email received today from Pastor Kiefa Ontiri who, as you know, is the man to whom God gave this vision and heart for the poor and the children. I do not expect you to be able to read between the lines so I will give you a brief view at what is current for today.
The cause of education has been embraced by many in the village and the role for scholarships may swell to over 40. As the invisible reality of the dream of a future with education becomes even more visible, I expect this number to grow each year. Today and for the near future, my best guess is that, we you and me, Go and Do Likewise and friends will be the source for this open gate to the future.
The health of the community is being raised up to awareness; the vehicle has already provided visual proof of hope; the sick have been transported and healed, the poor have been fed and the children have been provided for. The nutrition brought by cows and the beginning of sanitization or at least improved sanitization at the school, gives hope.
The Micro Franchise efforts continue to grow, bringing not only economic opportunity to the women but new sense of hope and growth for a new future.
The leadership taken by Kiefa and the others involved both with the church and Go and Do Kenya has been the strength of promise.
Economic opportunity through export to Middle Eastern markets is being explored and moving very rapidly.
Electricity is only being held up by economics. ( that equates to the lack of funds)
Water is waiting only for final drilling certificate from the government. ( this will also require funds)
The local government representatives for Health, Nutrition, Agriculture and Animal health are very willing and eager to work with Go and Do Kenya. There is no cost for their help, but the projects undertaken will require funds.
I know of no other words to explain what is happening, except to say, God has determined to do a quick work in that place.
Read Kiefa’s email
Bud here again, I realize the spelling and the use of our language may make this a little more difficult to read and understand, however, I think too the general tone of the times can not be mistaken. For a village to gather from their own poverty an amount to give to poor other than their own children is way out of the box for these people, other than the leadership. They have seen what you have done, what Our Lord has done through you and are learning the blessing of giving. Frankly, they are beginning to act as a people with hope, a people with a new confidence in a future directed by their Lord.
As you can see, in the days after Christmas we will know the number of accepted children and will know the requirement for scholarships.
I am learning to be at peace in the midst of the Chaos
Today we are about $4,500.00 short (estimated). While I am sure there are additional monies coming, I am also sure that without, each of us, seeking peace once again about our own involvement or asking others we know to help. The potential for leaving some children behind looms before us.
My dear friends, this is worthy, these are not unknown people and faces. These people are anxious to meet you and greet you in their own homes and make you welcome. They are not strangers, they are friends. The villagers of Rionchogu are friends, my friends, desiring to be your friends, who are learning the responsibility of change and the hope that comes with Faith.
Join me as this year comes to an end and as we celebrate this marvelous season. Such love as this brought forth the Son of God and brings forth His work in Rionchogu. Such love as this I have for you and your support for what is happening in Kenya.
Blessings and this love I send to you
Bud Potter