Stars of Hope Newsletter Oct-Feb 2008/09
Stars of Hope have gone from strength to strength and is growing organically. It has naturally progressed to become a fully functioning organisation that is responsible for the lives of a growing number of individuals in Kenya and now Bali too.
I have just returned from my second trip to Kenya this year and each time I go the effects of the work generated in the UK is clearly shown with quite wonderful and obvious improvements.
We started with a small plot in the slums of Dandora that we occupied for a few years until September 2007. In September we made a move to Ruai, which is rural land, around 40 minute drive from Nairobi city and slum life. Ruth and I thought that the move would come in around 5 years but we made it in 2007 and we now have rented property. Now in October 2008 Stars of Hope educates 60 children daily and provides a live in home for 30 extremely vulnerable children. The centre also employs 10 individuals.
Oct 2008: - Kenya
The beautiful vibe of the centre is truly noticeable. Despite their backgrounds that consist of things that no child should have to go through, the children are happy and full of life. I had to go to another centre that controls water outlets in the area, to get our water turned on and there the children were unhappy and lifeless, with lack of care. The money sent to the managers is used for personal gain rather than for nutritious food and education, clothes etc. This happens a lot in Kenya and so Stars really shines out and this shows in the children. Ruth and I have found a piece of land that we are hoping to buy. We have 2 years left at the rented property and with the growing number of children needing a home we are looking to move as soon we can. The land we have found is one acre, just 30 minutes from where we are now. The land is next to water pipes, electricity supply, a main road is just 5 minutes away making hospital access easy other things like transporting food etc. The land is also in a good area with good neighbours.
Oct 2008: - Bali
In September we hosted a large ball in Cornwall to raise the first funds for our Bali project. The night went so well and we have 500 people there, making £5000 profit. The money is being taken to Bali in November to provide 5 years rent for a property in Ubud and the remainder to begin doing up the building.
Our team in the UK is based in Cornwall and London. The network of Stars of Hope is strong and continues to go from strength to strength. We have a huge duty to protect and make the lives of many people brighter. This has been possible through the fantastic support and interest shown by many individuals, companies, families, and people form all walks of life.
Our work needs to be kept going and looks to 2009 with hope and excitement.
Many Thanks to everyone who has been part of this, gem.x
