Grateful for Volunteers at Mitongwe
Our time at Mitongwe over the past two months has been incredible! So much has happened, and we’ve witnessed such meaningful impact. Thank you for your support—please know that it has changed many lives and made a real difference!
Our Canadian Volunteers
Our security team had an informative session with Ryan from the Abbotsford Police, who shared valuable insights on security measures and strategies for keeping the farm safe. He provided training on the use of pepper spray and walkie-talkies, which we have now supplied to our guards. Ryan emphasized the importance of teamwork and how to call for backup effectively. The guards gained a wealth of knowledge and now feel better prepared to handle any challenges that may arise.
Doug and his team dedicated significant effort to improving the quality of our road. They meticulously designed an innovative system that effectively manages rainwater. This system ensures that even during heavy downpours, rainwater can flow smoothly along the road's surface without causing any damage or deterioration.
Christie dedicated time to our preschool, equipping the teachers with valuable skills to enhance their teaching methods. She arrived fully prepared with her puppet, songs, and teaching resources. The children adored her enthusiasm, and the best part is that the teachers are now better trained to continue supporting the children even after Christie’s departure.
We were incredibly grateful to have Darci join us again on this trip. She truly wears many hats, but what she seemed to enjoy most was venturing into the village with Isaiah, our Health & Wellness Manager, to assist with elderly assessments. She spent meaningful time praying with each senior, and their gratitude was deeply heartfelt.
Glenn and Barb joined us on the farm to immerse themselves in the rhythm of life at Mitongwe, ready to lend a hand where needed. As they settled in, they found themselves drawn into the daily activities, each day giving them a better understanding of the community and its way of life. One day, they helped harvest and shuck corn alongside a villager, their hands blistered from the hard work. By the end, they carried not just the harvest but a newfound respect for the labour that goes into every meal.
Having Jared at the farm was a great advantage, as his electrical expertise proved highly useful. He successfully wired our Health Center, preparing it for the upcoming solar installation in the next few months. Additionally, he took the time to teach Robert more about electrical work, sharing his knowledge and skills.
Community
We were once again able to gift another 100 girls with reusable menstrual pads, empowering them to stay in school full-time. When we shared that they would also receive soap, underwear, face cloths, and reusable pads, the room erupted in applause—it was an unforgettable moment!
One Saturday, we hosted a lively, fun day for the kids, welcoming over 500 children along with their youth pastors from nearby churches. At first, they weren’t sure what to expect, but once the three-legged race, sack race, and other games began, laughter filled the air. After the games, we gathered for a time of worship, shared a message about God's love, and watched as each group performed a beautiful song—it was truly amazing! Before heading home, we made sure to treat everyone to a biscuit, a drink, and some popcorn, ending the day on a joyful note.
More than 100 people are profoundly impacted through their work on the farm, engaging in various roles, developing new skills, and finding dignity in their labour. Each morning, they come together for devotions, singing, and prayer, embracing a sense of community and joy. The opportunity they have extends beyond themselves—it allows them to provide for their families while also supporting parents and extended relatives. Your support makes all of this possible—thank you!
