School Access for 100 Orphans in Vilankulo

In the northern hemisphere, it's time to take out the puffy coats - but here in Vilankulo, Mozambique, children are tearing off their school uniforms (for the last time this year) to head out to play or do chores.

Here you'll find some photos we took during our visit with three children that have had the opportunity to continue their education with the help of school access kits. Dalson, Edson, and Olencia just finished 1st, 2nd and 7th grade, respectively. These kids have survived some rough times, but because of your help, dropping out of school was not part of their story. Their mother moved away and left them with their father's family. Their father spent time in jail this year for abusing his own mother, the grandmother who looks after the children, who has little financial means. During our visit today, the siblings were enjoying their first week of summer break and reflecting on their school experiences. Little Dalson says his favorite teacher is Ms. Thelma.

We would like to thank all of the friends who made it possible for Dalson, Edson, Olencia and others like them to attend school with dignity. You are a part of providing education - a lifeline out of povery - to orphans in Vilankulo, Mozambique, the ninth poorest country on the planet according the UN Human Development Index. Sr. Inacio, our social protection officer, and the rest of the team look forward to reaching more children with school access kits next year. In the meantime, we wish you all happy holidays, whether they involve sledding down snow covered hills or getting sand between your toes on the beach.

Warm Regards,

Juliet