Registration & Safari

Next, Fred, Sue and I headed back out to the village to complete registration. This is a two day process where 60 children, previously selected by Michael the mobilizer, come to the project and we ask them a series of questions to help us gather information to pass on to potential sponsors about their condition. At the end of the interviews, which must be done with a translator due to the language barrier, each child is given a picture of themselves on a hand made card that tells them in their own language that they are loved. They are also given a goody bag that contains rice, beans, salt, soap, a toothbrush, and a toy, and a piece of candy.

These registrations, although long and exhausting, are very fun for me while getting to know new people and feeling so privileged to hear their stories. They always have a glimmer of hope in their eyes knowing that you are here to try and help them and their children. Our registration was a huge success and went fairly smooth despite the downpour of rain on both days. We actually had at least a hundred people who had not been asked to come for registration that just showed up because they heard what we were doing and wanted to see if they could get their children into the sponsorship program too. We unfortunately had to turn these people away and tell them that we hoped to be looking for more children to register soon. Also this week, we had the privilege of meeting Grace, the newly hired nurse who began her work right away treating many of those who came for registration. Grace was kind, smart, and hard working and seemed like a perfect fit.

The final weekend before our departure from Uganda, we had the opportunity to go on a safari to Murchison Falls National Park and stay at the Para Safari Lodge. Last year Vicky and I went on the safari to Queen Elizabeth’s National Park and the Mwyea Safari Lodge. We chose the safari at Murchison Falls this year because they have giraffes and that is Vicky’s favorite animal. The lodge was beautiful and both of our game drives were so amazing. We saw many animals such as giraffes, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, baboons and more. This trip was a much needed refresher for all four of us and was a great way to start our last week in Uganda.

 

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Preparing goody bags

Sue registers a child for sponsorship

On safari in Queen Elizabeth’s National Park

 

Michael and Fred "on the road"

Taking a break