Oh, what a journey it has been to date. A rollercoaster of a journey of emotions, hard work, frustration, depths of despair, disappointments, challenges, rewards, disbelief at some things in Kenya (most of the time), overwhelming kindness, generosity, love, sleepless nights, never-ending worry, long hours, heartache, stress, ongoing support, more challenges, more frustrations, and you ask is it all worth it?  An overwhelming YES. To be able to make a change in a child's life and other's lives make all of the above worthwhile. I've developed skills I never knew I had and made so many friendships along the way with like-minded people.
My mum showed me a poem the other day which was titled 'The Dash.' Umoja is my 'Dash.' It is hard to believe I started this project 9 years ago on the 30th of July.  Read 'The Dash.'  It is very difficult not to be able to return to Kenya this year to see our children.

Have a read also of the journey so far (heads up - you'll need a beverage/refreshment and a comfy chair.)

It has now been since March 20th the children have been in lockdown.  They desperately want to go back to school.  They continue to do some learning at home with Aunty Agnes learning Swahili songs and doing practical things around the house and project. Watch their singing.

Sinnamon House continues
In February of this year Mitchelton Rotary Club held a fundraising dinner for us to continue construction on our second children's home.  COVID-19 put a stop to everything so we were not able to do any more work on the house up till now when restrictions have been slightly lifted in Kenya.  In the past 2 weeks tiling on the kitchen, toilets and showers have been completed. The house is coming together nicely one step at a time.  Help us continue to complete.

Back on the horse again
After the devastating rains back in April and subsequent flooding at Umoja, and reduced staff due to COVID-19 I didn't think our staff would be able to get the farm back on its feet.  I knew they would grow enough to help feed our children, but I didn't think with such a reduced workforce that they could grow enough to sell at the market.   

Inspiring 
Our remaining staff are so happy to still have employment. House mothers and farm staff all worked together to get the farm going - all whilst in lockdown all this time since March 20. This week they took the first crop of machicha to market bringing in approx $60 AUD for the project.  This helps buy more seeds and puts fuel in our vehicle. 

Want to hear more about us?
Contact us if you'd like a guest speaker for your zoom meetings. I'd love to share more of our journey with you.  Unfortunately with COVID-19 this is the only way at present.