Tanzania, like other countries in Sub Saharan Africa is stunning in landscape. However, there are whole host of underlying issues that adversely affect its citizens. Systemic problems such as high crime rates due to unemployment, lack of access to clean water and adequate social services makes the poor living conditions difficult to overcome. Tanzania continues to be one of the most HIV affected countries in the world, with millions of people currently affected by the disease. With so many AIDS related deaths, many children are left without family. Unfortunately, due to the stigma that surrounds these deaths, extended family are reluctant to care for these children because of fear that they might bring the disease into their homes.
Children in Tanzania who have been orphaned or abandoned face many struggles. In addition to being at risk of trafficking, rape, and extreme poverty, children in Tanzania are rarely given the opportunity to overcome their situation. A recent United Nations report shows that orphaned and vulnerable children in developing countries are less likely to finish primary school, with Sub-Saharan Africa leading the way with the highest rate of children dropping out of school in the world. Poor health, social oppression, early marriage, lack of transportation and trauma are just some of the barriers that prevent successful completion of school among orphaned children, especially girls. In fact, 28 million girls between the ages of about 6 and 15 across Africa are not in school and many will never have the chance to ever enter a classroom.
For several years, Men and Women of Action visited Shalom Orphanage, working to repair the home and ensure better shelter for the children. As time passed, the orphanage was struggling to stay open, so MWA asked SOW for help. With the support of SOW and our partners, Shalom Orphanage was able to not only keep the doors open, but also to expand and allow more orphaned children to live at the home. Shalom Orphanage aims to give these kids a childhood and opportunities they would not otherwise have. Today, they are thriving with caring staff, a beautiful and safe facility, and the resources to enroll every school aged child in school.
Serving Orphans Worldwide travels to every orphanage we partner with to ensure needs are legitimate and 100% of funds distributed goes to the livelihood of the children.
This year, we have a goal to help improve the quality of care for these amazing children, and we need your help. Your gift will help provide education, a safe home, health, and adult mentors who can share the Love of Christ. Our promise to you is that 100% will go directly to the home.