HUGS - Who We Are

AIDS has had a devastating impact on the social and economic structures of Uganda. Often, the untold story is the effect AIDS has had on the children who are left orphaned when one or both of their parents die of the disease. The number of children affected in this way is staggering. Frequently, the child is left with no resources, no protection and no guidance in how to care for themselves.

The problem is so overwhelming that at first glance it might seem impossible to solve. A large amount of assistance is currently being provided by many fine charitable organizations... but resources are often concentrated within the major cities, leaving only a small amount to make its way into the more remote villages. Along with this, educational opportunities in the villages are quite limited. This leaves the children with no foundation to overcome the obstacles they face. Because over 90% of the Ugandan people live outside the capital city of Kampala, there is a strong need to reach out to the villages with care and support.

HUGS was formed for this very reason. It is our belief that the AIDS orphan situation in isolated regions of Uganda can best be solved "one child, one village at a time." We focus our efforts on safety, security, education and health care to improve the lives of these children. Our goal is to give them the tools they need to better themselves and their communities. We do this in several ways...

1. Through partnerships with Ugandan-based charitable organizations
HUGS supports the efforts of selected Ugandan organizations that share a vision of improving conditions for HIV/AIDS-affected children. Such organizations include local operators of orphanages, clinics and schools, particularly in remote areas of the country that lack government services. After prayerful consideration, we have established such a relationship with the Hope Child Care Program (HCCP) of Uganda for the construction of housing, a clinic and educational facilities in the village of Bulanga in the Rakai District.

2. By providing education and training
The HUGS Board of Directors consists of medical, dental, educational and business professionals who seek to assist Ugandans in the care and upbringing of HIV/AIDS-affected children. We also offer assistance and training to women in the villages, who are often ill-equipped to provide for their families following the death of their husbands. At least one HUGS officer/director travels annually to Uganda with a volunteer team in order to conduct such training.

3. By providing child sponsorship opportunities
Through our Ugandan partners, HUGS has established a program by which individuals can sponsor disadvantaged children in the villages. It costs as little as $40 per month to provide food, medicine and education for a child. Sponsors also have the option to do more... such as providing funds for improved education, family support and/or better housing.

4. By raising funds for general needs and special projects
This is accomplished by educating the public about the need, by partnering with local churches and service organizations, by holding fundraising events, and by conducting special presentations.

5. By overseeing and verifying the utilization of funds
There are many charities soliciting money on behalf of AIDS orphans. Unfortunately, a few of the smaller organizations are corrupt. A large part of what HUGS does is to ensure that donated funds are used for the intended purpose and that the children receive the maximum benefit. We accomplish this by visiting supported organizations, assessing general progress and publishing updates on the HUGS website. In this way, HUGS provides accountability to the public regarding donations, their use and the results achieved.