Zimbabwe: Patience

From Zimbabwe 2010 Photo Album

Patience is a virtue. This describes Zimbabweans. We Canadians have a plan and want to stick to it. In Zimbabwe, to wait is part of life. The children who have been promised a bedkit have taken that to heart and have shown us that waiting is what they will to do to get one. Their parents, mostly mothers, have been appreciative of the opportunity their child has been given to receive a much needed gift. For many children the wait has been long. A day without food or water is a small price to pay for the reward to be earned.

The children who are at the front of the line receive their bedkits and happily return home to set up their bedkit and I let them know that they should have a nap, just to practise sleeping on a mattress with a soft pillow covered by sheets and a warm blanket!! They beam with pride.

The children who watch this process going on from the back of the line – hundreds of bedkits away, show immense patience: quietly eyeing the process of setting up the photograph, “cheesing” for the photographer, filing past two tables to complete the confirmation of the gift that they are about to receive, and, finally having a bag filled with their bedkit items handed to them!! Sometimes the bag is bigger than the child! This is the time when the child who is close to the end continues to smile, knowing that the room full of bedkits, has one guaranteed for him/her. This process may be hours away. That is what they will do, sometime today. There is only silence and big eyes following the children ahead of them in line. No complaints. No whining. No outbursts. No tears. Just patience.

From Zimbabwe 2010 Photo Album

When I hand bedkits to children, I let them know it will be a wonderful sleep they will have tonight. I tell them to have sweet dreams, all wrapped up in their blanket, on their new mattress. To see their beaming smiles and words of thanks, after waiting all day to finally be the “one” is satisfying, and makes me proud to know I have made a difference.

Our Zim team has made a difference. Perhaps the children will dream of Canada. I told children today what our winter is like. It is winter here now. I described what downhill skiing is and how to make a snowman. Big round eyes showed their interest. I told them to dream big. They smiled and said: "Yes!!"

Sleeping Children makes dreams come true.

Sleep well, because, as of today, thousands more children in Zimbabwe will.

Ciao,

Helen Scott
for Team Zimbabwe 2010

Post your comments here.

Zimbabwe: Every child's right

From Zimbabwe 2010 Photo Album

“It is every child’s right to have a peaceful night’s sleep.”

Murray Dryden coined this phrase in the early 70s and it has become the beacon of hope that unites the many people who volunteer their time and talents for Sleeping Children Around the World.

It is also the right of every child to be loved.

This powerful motivator is the energy that lifts our charity to exceptional heights of achievement. Our volunteers touch the hearts of many of the world’s most needy children in their own personal ways. Our team leader, Leslie Banner, was in conversation with a member of the Overseas Volunteer Organization and was unaware of the little two year old child who was crawling towards her. Our team members watched as this beautiful child approached Leslie and paused to look up at her in the most inquisitive fashion.

From Zimbabwe 2010 Photo Album

The moment was truly unique.

The child edged even closer until he could no longer resist the urge to reach out his small hand to touch Leslie. It was at this precise moment that Leslie became aware that she was about to receive the perfect Zimbabwe welcome.

This little child melted into her arms in an instant. It was one of those unscripted experiences that represented our shared desire to bring hope to those less fortunate.

Grant Clark
for Team Zimbabwe 2010

Post your comments here.

Zimbabwe: Superwoman Anne

From Zimbabwe 2010 Photo Album

Anne is one of the Rotarians working with us on today’s distributions of bedkits in Hatcliffe.

As we arrived, everything was in full swing. Bundles of bedkits were being unloaded and children were being registered and dressed in their new clothes -- ready to have their photo taken.

Anne had an army of junior Rotarians working for us. They spoke the local language, Shona, and English which was a great help to us. There was Allington and Blint behind the camera person, who not only got the children to smile but laugh out loud at times.

Others helped getting them to receive their large bundle of a gift and go back to their parents. Now and then during a lull these young Rotarians would show off their dance moves to Michael Jackson music. And can they move.

From Zimbabwe 2010 Photo Album

The travelling team was invited to Anne’s house for an after-distribution meal. She promised us Zimbabwean fare.

One of the delicacies was a bowl full of large, brown, crisp critters, which we all dutifully if not with some disgust chewed and swallowed except for one person who shall remain nameless and another who had a valid excuse.

A fun ending to a great day.

Hilda Reinauer-Stark
for Team Zimbabwe 2010

Post your comments here.

Zimbabwe: The Very First Distribution

From Zimbabwe 2010 Photo Album

The Zimbabwe team had a very interesting first day for distributions. There were a few setbacks such as having a transport truck for the bedkits at Chicurubi that broke down and as a result could only drive backwards.

But other than the few minor holdups and a late start the distribution ran smoothly. The children were very respectful and were full of energy which was great for us to see and made us very happy. Also the caregivers that were on the site looking on were very helpful and patient when waiting for the next set of bedkits to arrive. They even helped move them to where they had to be. At our second site (Msasa) there was a small delay with the receiving of the bedkits but everything ran quite smoothly and the problem was solved easily with patience and a good attitude.

The caregivers at Msasa were wonderful as well. They were very excited to have their children receiving the bedkits. The children were so excited and had so much energy. They came over to the group and talked to us quite a bit and I managed to make a friend in the group.

From Zimbabwe 2010 Photo Album

We also found at Msasa that there were quite a few disabled children and we thought it was great that these children were receiving bedkits -- especially because they require special care.

So, all in all, it was a great first distribution day: we learned a lot about what needs to be done in the future, so we made the best of our situation and I believe we make a great team!

I’m so glad I’m here to experience this because it is a once in a lifetime opportunity and it’s so satisfying to know that I’m helping a child to sleep better.

Sidney Gittens
for Team Zimbabwe 2010

Post your comments here.

Zimbabwe: Thursday, the first day in Harare

Mangwananee!! (Hello in the language of Shona - forgive the spelling!)

Our first full day in Zim has been a busy one. As a newcomer to the SCAW family, I am in awe of the careful, methodical work and extensive amount of time that has been put into the organization of this project. I know I am in good hands and with a competent team.

We unpacked and arranged a sample bedkit (as shown in the photo), performed the errands that go with last minute snags, and met with our Rotarian friends. For Sidney (the other newbie) and I, it has been an important dress rehearsal to be able to experience the time needed to make sure we are all ready for the big day.

We are all one team now: the Rotarians and SCAW volunteers!!

For me, this has been a two-year dream to volunteer with SCAW: my Christmas present is about to be opened tomorrow!! I have goose bumps in anticipation of the day ahead. We will be saying "Taysaka!" ("Smile!") many times on Friday! I’m sure I will hardly be able to sleep tonight!!

Mazweeta. (Thank you.)

Ciao,
Helen Scott
for Team Zimbabwe 2010

Post your comments here.

Zimbabwe: The team has arrived

The Zimbabwe 2010 team has arrived in Harare after almost 20 hours of flying time, and an overnight in Johannesburg, where it was a chilly 6 degrees Celsius.

We were met at the airport by representatives of our Rotary Club partners, including Oscar Orange (Back row, centre).

Post your comments here.

Zimbabwe: The team meets at 28 Pinehurst

Sleeping Children Around the World is going to Zimbabwe for the first time this year.

This week, the Zimbabwe travelling team met at Sleeping Children's house in Etobicoke to prepare for the trip.

Pictured are (Left to right): Grant Clark, Hilda Reinauer-Stark, Doug Jamieson, Leslie Banner, Helen Scott, and Sidney Gittens.

They hope to be sending reports from Zimbabwe when the distribution of bedkits begins.

Post your comments here.

Zimbabwe: Post your comments here

As a courtesy, please include your name at the end of your comment or click on Select profile ... and fill in your name by selecting Name/URL. You don't have to fill in the URL but if you like you can put "www.scaw.org" there.

Uganda trip reports posted

The donor newsletter for the Uganda bedkit distribution has gone to print and can be downloaded from the Sleeping Children Website.

Uganda Photos 2010

Photos are available in the Uganda 2010 Photo Album. You can view them by clicking the link above.

If you would like to read the reports on the web, you can read them in their entirety here.

Here is a download link for the PDF version of the newsletter.

Togo trip reports posted

The donor newsletter for the Togo bedkit distribution has gone to print and can be downloaded from the Sleeping Children Website.

Togo 2010 Photos

Photos are available in the Togo 2010 Photo Album. You can view them by clicking the link above.

If you would like to read the reports on the web, you can read them in their entirety here.

Here is a download link for the PDF version of the newsletter.

Philippines: Mission Accomplished

The SCAW travelling team and the SCAW Core Committee (Kiwanis) team. From Philippines 2010

Today the Philippines team had the pleasure of distributing the final 400 bedkits to needy children. Now 6,000 kids have the materials to ensure "the comfort of a good night's sleep." The kids and their parents are most grateful for their "Gift of Love" from Canada.

The Kiwanis team in Manila carried out their part of the distributions without the leadership of Dr. Juan Torres who had emergency surgery on the second day of the schedule. They are so committed to the goals of meeting the needs of children that they have every detail covered. It is a family affair with husbands, wives, and teen-agers all working to accomplish the tasks.

Thanks to all who supported the team with blog messages and e-mails of encouragement. We will be home soon to share our stories and photos.

Sally Jo Martin
for the SCAW 2010 Philippines Team

Post your comments here.

Philippines: Anticipation of a gift

The children are both shy and excited at the same time when they come to receive their bedkit. They try to contain the excitement that they are feeling when a gift is forthcoming but the expression on their faces tell it all.

When they come forward to receive the bedkit they try to suppress a giggle or big smile and some even do a little dance hopping up and down. You can’t help but feel part of their excitement as well.

It’s a birthday/Christmas present all rolled into one -- something many may not receive too often. They are so appreciative.

One little boy expressed it the best. When seated to get his picture taken, he looked down at all the items that make up a bedkit that were spread out in front of him and said “Incredible."

Joyce Foster
for the SCAW 2010 Philippines Team

Post your comments here.

Uganda: Distribution complete

Our distribution is complete and 6,000 more Ugandan kids are sleeping peacefully!

Best part of the distribution:

The excitement when we pull into the distribution site and the smiles that are present when we hand the children the bedkits.

Worst part of the distribution:

The many children waiting at the end to see if there are any extra bedkits. They are happy to collect our empty water bottles ... Imagine how they would feel with their own bedkits.

Children all around the world have big dreams for their future. We hope your bedkits will help these children realize their dreams.

Jenny Simpson
for SCAW Team Uganda 2010

Post your comments here.

Philippines: The "Eyes" have it

They sparkle, they are shy, they smile, they are worried and some are sad. Each of those dark brown eyes tell a human story.

The rewarding part of being the member of the team that gives the bedkit is that you have the opportunity to make eye contact with each child.

One little girl today came dancing to me with sparkling eyes. The bedkit she received was almost bigger than she but she was soooo happy.

Each child receives a blessing and the blessing that I use is “A Gift of Love.” Yesterday some of the children came from an area that, by our standards, has very little. Many said "Salamat, Po" ("Thank you.") in their language and added “God Bless.” Here were these children who needed so much, blessing me. It was very touching and a reminder of how lucky we are.

Frank Best
for the SCAW 2010 Philippines Team

Post your comments here.

Philippines: Life on the Streets

Today’s distribution in Metropolitan Manila took us to the grounds of a convent where local children greeted us enthusiastically.

After all the photos had been taken today we went on a walking tour of the area where many of the children who received the bedkits live. This “informal housing neighbourhood” which we would consider a slum was an eye opener. Tiny concrete block homes with minimal water or hydro supply stand on a steep slope leading to a road lined with small shops.

There we saw the children happily playing games using improvised equipment. Flip flops, stones, a kiddy riding toy, a basketball all had them running and laughing.

Most touching was their approach asking to be blessed. Indeed we are the ones feeling blessed to have brought comfort and joy to so many beautiful children.

Sally Jo Martin
for the SCAW 2010 Philippines Team

Post your comments here.

Uganda: Getting home …

Here in Uganda we have noticed the many modes of transportation for getting bedkits to their new homes.

The road into the distribution was long and bumpy on our bus today. We were slowed down by a herd of cattle that moved at a very slow pace despite our honking.

Many children came from far away villages and had to share transportation with other children on the way home. It is common to see one large truck with 50 to 60 bedkits and their new owners as well as the children’s families.

We have seen other modes of transport such as motorcycles and bikes carrying numerous bedkits at a time and many children walking with the pails on their heads.

Rain or shine they proudly wave as we make our way on the long and bumpy road to the next distribution.

SCAW Team Uganda 2010

Post your comments here.

Philippines: Blessed

From Philippines Slideshow 3

Today was my day to receive 350 blessings from the children as they received their bedkit.

I am overwhelmed with their spirit. As a way of thanking us, the children take your hand and press it to their forehead. It symbolizes respect.

In a time when respect is often overlooked these children are very grateful for what they have received.

I am the one who feels blessed.

Marg Garrett
for the SCAW 2010 Philippines Team

Note: For more photos of this day's distribution, see yesterday's slide show.

Post your comments here.

Uganda: Hello, Muzungu!

From Day 9

The Uganda Team was "on the road" for a few days. They sent this report & photos just before they left.

"Hello Muzungu!"

As we travel through Uganda, the team encounters the incredible warmth of the Ugandan people. Whether it be a warm embrace from a distribution helper, a welcome song by the children, or mothers dancing in celebration of our arrival.

Our particular favourites are the constant waves to us on the bus and children yelling "Hello, muzungu, how are you?" as they run alongside. (Muzungu is the local word meaning "white face.")

In so many ways, we are welcomed into the community. The people here are joyous, kind, and so very gracious.

SCAW Team Uganda 2010

Post your comments here.

Philippines: Slide Show 3

SCAW 2010 Philippines Team

Post your comments here.

Uganda: Rain

"Rain, rain go away, come again another day."

During a distribution we never know when rain is going to happen or how long it will last. One day we were reminded just how tricky Mother Nature can be as a lengthy downpour rolled over our distribution site. As one bedkit recipient’s parent said “During the rainy season, it is very cool for the child and I can’t go to work.”

Uganda is very dependent on Mother Nature. She could make a person unable to work.

As for us, we still work -- rain or shine! We’re ecstatic to do it knowing that each child will sleep on a comfy mattress, wrapped in a warm blanket and under a mosquito net tonight … and for many nights.

SCAW Team Uganda 2010

Post your comments here.