We now have a full house!  Fifteen boys live with Ronnie and his assistants in the home we began renting in January, in the area of Kampala called Masanafu.  Ranging in age from 4 to 11, most of the boys are in primary school, while the rest study at home to prepare for school in the future. When they get home from school they watch TV, do school work, have dinner, and report the day's problems to Ronnie--the final arbitrator in all disputes!  They play soccer on Saturdays with other area children, feed their chickens and take care of the dog.  All of this is a far cry from a few months ago when they were living in the slums at night and often begging for food or money during the day.

Saturday Soccer with Friends

Since the kids are young, Ronnie felt they needed a woman around, so Auntie Annette now serves as the house mother to watch over the boys, cook and do laundry.  Alex has worked with Ronnie for a long time, and now helps the boys study and keep their rooms clean.  Molly, the newest addition to the team, is a long-time friend of Ronnie and  will assist with bookkeeping and shopping.

Alex Helping with Schoolwork

Molly and Ronnie

As required by local government, each boy in Jajja's Kids home has the written blessing of a relative--whether it be a grandparent, distant relative or a parent too poor to adequately provide for their child.  Ronnie has worked diligently to meet legal requirements for a safe and happy home; adherence to government guidelines also paves the way for possible local support in the future.  Visitors from as far away as Australia and South Carolina have come to see the home and learn from Ronnie's experiences to date, or to assist in areas such as first aide care.

Ronnie and the Boys Doing Crafts

Given that this is our first year having a home, much is being learned at all levels. While school fees are relatively modest, each boy needs a new uniform and shoes every term.  And when one falls out of his bunk or gets hurt playing soccer, a trip to the clinic or hospital is necessary.  So, as with any family, unexpected expenses often arise.  This first year's experiences help us plan better for the years to come.

Dinner Time at Home

The  Friday Program

Our original program--bringing math, English and art lessons to slum children who otherwise have little chance to learn--continues to run with volunteers who themselves had started life in the slums. With ongoing input from Ronnie and assistance by Robert, this program provides hope where little hope is otherwise available.