Amid some technical issues (my email accounts believing I’ve been hacked by someone in Uganda) I’m finally able to upload this post from weeks ago.
Prior to my trip to Uganda this year, I did some fundraising
to help cover the costs of an unpaid internship. I’m so grateful for the
support of my loving family and friends, not only financially but also in
spirit. I wanted to use this money in
the most responsible manner possible as it was a very generous gift.
Breakdown:
Room & Board - $540 The location where I lived in Kampala is run by Sanyu and is an income
generating project. Meals, a house manager, security guard, and other amenities
are provided with profits benefitting Sanyu for use at their discretion.
Purchased Donations - $415 I collected very few items from the U.S. to
take with me. Reason 1: Small Suitcase. Reason 2: I wanted to see what the
needs were on the ground and purchase locally if possible. I used this money to
purchase rice (50kg), sugar (50kg), and laundry soap for all of the workers in
addition to supplying items for nutrition training. For the home, I invested in
diapers, lactose-free formula, cleaning supplies, gloves/first aid materials,
and aprons.
In my past posts I’ve talked a lot about a little boy I met
at the children’s home and his story. I used the remaining money ($175 and
paychecks to come) to pay the medical and upkeep costs for this child,
including paying a portion of the school fees for his mother.
My experience at Sanyu has helped me to develop both professionally and personally. It was humbling to work with some of the most vulnerable people in society. I only hope the programs and skills I was able to pass on can impact their lives in a positive way. Leaving has been incredibly difficult, though I am lucky to be doing the remainder of my internship in my "second home" of Kamuli, Uganda. Definitely a something to look forward to!
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