En English
A problem we can solve together...
✦
Save Sunshine Shelter kids
A Home Away From The Streets
Programs and community activities
Program activity
Youth program activity
Community program activity
Community development activity
PROGRAMS & IMPACT

Semi-Annual
Impact Report

JANUARY — JUNE 2026
Rescue • Rehabilitate • Progress
Children
Community
Six Months of Progress & Impact A summary of our programs, achievements, challenges, lessons learned and the difference created within the communities we serve.
Programs • Progress • Impact • Learning






Six-Month Programs Report

Executive
Summary

January — June 2026

Six Months of Progress

The first six months of 2026 recorded steady progress across child protection, rehabilitation, education, health, advocacy, and community empowerment programs. Despite challenges such as limited funding, displacement, substance abuse, health needs, and family poverty, the organization continued providing essential support to street children, youth, and communities.

The key achievements included family reunifications and resettlements, medical support for 273 street children, education and vocational assistance, and advocacy reaching over 100 children. Since 2005, the organization has supported 2,858 children, with 83 rescued, rehabilitated, and reintegrated.

Moving forward, the focus will remain on rehabilitation, education, health, family reintegration, child protection, skills development, and resource mobilization to create safer and more sustainable futures for children and communities.

Why It Matters

Our programs matter because they give street children, youth, women, and families hope, protection, opportunity, and a pathway to a better future. Through outreach, education, healthcare, counseling, rehabilitation, family reintegration, skills development, and community empowerment, we help people move from vulnerability toward stability and independence.

The impact is evident in the lives supported: -2,858 children have been reached since 2005, 83 rescued, rehabilitated and reintegrated, 273 street children received medical services, and families have been reunited and resettled.

The continued support for our programs is essential to reach more vulnerable people, strengthen families, protect children, and build safer, healthier, and more resilient communities.

Our Impact at a Glance

6
Family Reunifications
Children successfully reconnected with their families.
2
Successful Resettlements
Children successfully transitioned into family care.
4
Seeking Reintegration
Children expressing a desire to return home.
65%
School Fees Paid Directly
Direct payment to schools supporting accountability.
01

Education

Supporting school attendance, academic progress, learning materials and educational stability.

02

Rehabilitation

Providing counselling, mentorship and structured support to help children rebuild confidence.

03

Family Reintegration

Strengthening families and supporting safe, sustainable reunification and follow-up.

"Together, we are helping children move from vulnerability toward education, family, dignity and opportunity."

Street Children Outreach Programs

This Semi Annual Programs Report reflects not only the activities we have carried out, but also the lives that continue to be transformed through care, rehabilitation, education, mentorship, and a supportive family environment. The street children outreach program has continued to provide a vital source of support, care, and guidance for street children despite increasing operational challenges such as frequent relocations, urban developments, and heightened restrictions that have disrupted activities.

Street Children Impact Report


Street Children Program
Street Children Program

Street children outreach Program Progress.

Throughout the six-month period, the program has remained committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where children can access nutritious meals, hygiene services, counseling, medical assistance, and opportunities for personal growth and transformation. Regular engagement through counseling, mentorship, and group discussions has encouraged positive behavioral change, with many children becoming more open, cooperative, and willing to take responsibility for their decisions while actively participating in conversations on substance abuse, life choices, and future opportunities.

Even children who initially struggled due to drug use or unstable behavior have shown gradual improvement through consistent support and guidance. Restoring dignity and promoting healthy personal habits has remained a key priority, with outreach sessions providing opportunities for children to bathe, wash their clothes, cut their hair, trim their nails, and receive clean clothing. These hygiene interventions have become increasingly important given the harsh realities of street life and have helped improve the children's self-esteem while reducing their vulnerability, particularly during periods of intensified police operations targeting young people in public spaces.

Counseling, mentorship, food support, and flexible outreach approaches continue to play a significant role in the rehabilitation process of street-connected children. The involvement of former street-connected children who have successfully transformed their lives has provided encouragement, hope, and practical examples of change, with individuals such as Thomas sharing personal experiences to help boys understand that a better future is possible despite their current circumstances. These sessions encourage children to move beyond street life and explore alternative opportunities. Food support remains a critical component of the outreach programs, as many children face increased food insecurity due to rising costs and reduced access to previous sources of meals.

Through the program, children continue to receive nutritious meals such as cassava and beans, maize flour with beans and cabbage, katogo, and porridge, while feeding activities also provide a consistent opportunity for engagement and relationship building.

The program has also continued adapting to the changing needs of children affected by displacement and urban developments, as ongoing demolitions and changes in city spaces have forced many children to relocate from their former sleeping areas and gathering points. These changes have made identification and mobilization more challenging, requiring increased movement, transportation support, and flexibility in selecting outreach locations, with temporary spaces such as tents, cinema halls, community areas, and open fields being used to ensure activities continue.

Majors

Despite ongoing challenges, the program has continued to record positive progress in supporting the reintegration and wellbeing of street-connected children. Several children who were brought to Kampala from rural areas for informal work have been supported to return home through collaboration with families and local authorities, with eight boys successfully reunited with their families while others continue to receive follow-up support. The program has also linked children to opportunities in sports, music, and practical skills development through partnerships with other organizations. Health support remains a key area of intervention, as many children continue to face illnesses and injuries, including malaria, flu, stomach problems, ear infections, and wounds.

Although medical assistance is provided whenever possible, challenges remain due to limited emergency funds and the need for referrals to larger health facilities. Substance abuse, particularly aviation fuel inhalation, continues to affect children’s participation and recovery, with counseling efforts focusing on addiction, decision-making, and the long-term impact of drug use. Encouragingly, some regular participants have shown reduced public drug use, although continued support is still needed. Additionally, increased arrests and enforcement operations have heightened the vulnerability of street-connected children, with some experiencing detention and challenges related to child protection and access to justice.

Continued Progress

The program has observed both emerging challenges and encouraging signs of change. A growing number of younger children, especially boys aged 13 to 15 years, are joining street life due to influence from older street-connected youth and hopes of finding opportunities in music, performance, and city life. This situation emphasizes the importance of early intervention, family support, and stronger community-based prevention initiatives. Despite these difficulties, the Street Kids Outreach Programs continue to make a meaningful impact through consistent outreach, feeding support, hygiene assistance, counseling, mentorship, medical care, and reintegration services.

The children continue to demonstrate resilience and gradual transformation, and through continued commitment, partnerships, and support, the programs remain an important source of stability, hope, and opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into safer and healthier futures.

Street Children Program Impact Report

A line graph representing the positive impact and progress achieved through attendance, feeding, counselling, health support, rehabilitation, and family reintegration.





Street Youth Group Counseling Initiative

The Street Youth Group Counselling Initiative was established to address the unique needs of older street boys aged 15 years and above, a group that often has fewer opportunities for rescue and placement in shelters. While younger children are more frequently prioritized for rehabilitation and family reintegration, many older boys remain on the streets with limited access to support in different forms.

Monitoring Dashboard

15

Total Boys Supported

6

Regular Attendance

3

Focused Participants

6

Transition Ready

1

Successful Transition

The Street Youth Group Counseling Initiative continued to support older street boys through counseling, mentorship, family engagement, and preparation for rehabilitation. The program aims to encourage boys to leave street life by reducing exposure to risks such as violence, substance abuse, criminal activities, gang recruitment, exploitation, and other dangers associated with street survival. During the reporting period, the program strengthened its approach by focusing on a smaller group of 15 boys who demonstrated willingness and readiness to begin the transition process. Counseling sessions were conducted twice weekly during evening hours in flexible locations such as restaurants, gardens, and open spaces. This approach allowed for deeper engagement, stronger relationships, and more individualized support based on each boy’s personal experiences and needs.

The counseling sessions focused on personal responsibility, emotional healing, conflict resolution, goal setting, trauma support, substance abuse awareness, family relationships, and preparation for life beyond the streets. Over time, several boys became more open in sharing their experiences, challenges, and future aspirations, showing improved trust and commitment toward positive change. Participation continued to improve, although attendance remained affected by the unstable conditions of street life. Among the 15 boys involved, 6 maintained regular attendance, 3 showed strong focus and commitment, 6 were identified as ready for transition support, while 9 continued to experience irregular attendance. Despite these challenges, the overall engagement and willingness to participate in the rehabilitation process increased.

Program Summary

A significant achievement during this period was the progress of one young boy who demonstrated consistency, maturity, responsibility, and openness to guidance. Through continued counseling and assessment, he successfully completed the preparation stage and began the transition process into the Independent Living House Program. His progress has encouraged other boys within the group to develop greater interest in vocational training and future rehabilitation opportunities. Family engagement activities also continued through family tracing and discussions with relatives where possible. Although some families showed willingness to support reintegration, challenges remain due to previous separation, neglect, and family conflicts. Each case continues to be assessed carefully to ensure that future reintegration decisions support the best interests of each young person.

Program Update The program continues to face challenges including inconsistent attendance, substance abuse, peer influence, unstable living conditions, frequent movement between locations, and limited economic opportunities. These factors make long-term rehabilitation more complex and require continuous counseling, mentorship, and individualized support. Moving forward, the initiative will continue assessing boys who are ready for vocational training and independent living support. The program will strengthen counseling services, expand transition preparation, support family engagement, and provide pathways toward stability, self-reliance, and independent living.

The different representation of the program demonstrates the relationship between counseling participation and rehabilitation readiness. The data shows that boys with higher attendance and stronger engagement tend to demonstrate greater readiness for transition.

Monthly Program Participation

Attendance Status Distribution

Program Growth Trend

Attendance vs Rehabilitation Readiness

As attendance and engagement increase, boys show greater commitment, improved behavior, stronger confidence, and increased readiness for vocational training and independent living support.

Rehabilitation Impact Report

Restoring Hope Through Our Programs

Every small step forward represents courage, commitment, and the power of consistent love and guidance. Every child carries a story, a dream, and the potential to create a brighter future.

Rehabilitation Program
Children receiving support

Rehabilitation Program Progress.

The children continue to make encouraging progress in their rehabilitation, education, and personal development. As more children attend school, the shelter has established structured daily routines that promote discipline, responsibility, and independence. Early morning preparation, supervised homework, evening study sessions, and consistent routines are helping the children adapt to a more organized way of life.

Significant improvements have been observed in the children's behavior and relationships. They are becoming more respectful, cooperative, and appreciative of one another. Through continuous guidance and counseling, they are learning to resolve conflicts peacefully, communicate better, share resources, and build healthy friendships. The boys have shown improvement in controlling their emotions, cooperating with others, and handling disagreements without violence. The girls continue to demonstrate responsibility through household duties, teamwork, meal preparation, and management of their personal belongings.

Daily responsibilities remain an important part of the rehabilitation process. Children are assigned tasks according to their age and abilities, helping them develop independence, accountability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. The shelter continues to encourage a family-like environment where children support and care for one another.

Education continues to play a major role in the children's transformation. The children remain engaged in their studies through regular school attendance, homework, holiday assignments, and supervised revision. Although some boys continue to experience challenges adjusting to structured learning due to their previous street experiences, they are making progress through consistent support, encouragement, and guidance.

Mentorship and counseling continue to strengthen the children's emotional and social development. Sessions with former street children who have successfully transformed their lives provide encouragement, practical advice, and positive examples. Monthly visits from a mentoring pastor also provide spiritual guidance, emotional support, and motivation, helping the children develop confidence, hope, self-worth, and positive goals for their future.

The shelter continues to provide individual care and support, including attention for a child living with epilepsy. The other children have developed greater understanding and empathy, learning how to support and care for one another.

Despite the progress made, challenges remain. Limited funding has required adjustments to some meals and snacks in order to support essential educational needs. The shelter also faces an urgent need for new bedding after a bedbug infestation damaged many mattresses, affecting the comfort and health of the children.

Overall, the children continue to grow socially, emotionally, academically, and spiritually. Through consistent care, education, mentorship, and guidance, they are developing the confidence, responsibility, and life skills needed for a safer and more successful future.

72+

Children Supported

15

Successfully Reintegrated

90%

Continued Progress

40+

Families Reached

Rehabilitation Outcomes

A snapshot of progress achieved through our rehabilitation programs.





Education Programs

Our education programme supports learners at every level, including primary school, secondary school, vocational institutions, and university. Throughout the reporting period, we worked closely with schools to ensure children remained enrolled, settled into their new learning environments, and received the academic and emotional support they needed to succeed.

Education Progress Report

The academic year began with a phased enrolment process to accommodate the different reporting schedules across education levels. Priority was given to candidates preparing for national examinations, university students, and vocational trainees because of their earlier reporting dates and greater academic demands.

As the months progressed, additional groups of learners resumed school in stages. While some children initially reported later than expected because of outstanding school requirements, continuous engagement with schools and careful planning enabled most learners to resume their education. Schools demonstrated remarkable understanding by allowing flexible arrangements for some requirements, ensuring that children were not unnecessarily excluded from learning.

Several children transferred to new schools during the reporting period. Although these transfers created additional logistical demands, they ultimately placed learners in environments better suited to their educational and personal development. The experience highlighted the importance of preparing contingency plans for school changes and fee adjustments so that future transitions can be managed more smoothly.

Program Update

Overall academic performance has been encouraging throughout the reporting period. Mid-term and beginning-of-term examinations showed that many children are making steady progress, with several producing excellent results. Senior Four, Senior Six, and Primary Seven candidates have demonstrated strong commitment to their studies as they prepare for their national examinations. Students in boarding schools have particularly benefited from structured learning environments that provide greater concentration and consistent academic support. University students have continued progressing well in their respective programmes, while several young people pursuing vocational training have remained committed to developing practical skills that will enhance their future employment opportunities.

Many children who previously spent extended periods out of school have adjusted remarkably well to classroom learning. Their confidence continues to grow as they regain lost learning opportunities and develop positive study habits. Despite the encouraging progress, some learners continue to require additional academic support. The greatest challenge remains among a number of lower primary learners, particularly those in Grade Two, who continue to struggle with reading, writing, pronunciation, and comprehension in English. Many understand concepts well when questions are explained in their local language but experience difficulty interpreting examination questions presented in English.

Education Beneficiary Overview

Summary

Children requiring additional academic support continue to receive targeted assistance through remedial lessons, holiday studies, and close academic monitoring, particularly in English and mathematics. While some learners are still adjusting after prolonged absences from school, their placement is carefully guided by their academic progress and overall development to ensure they build strong educational foundations.

Education Finance Report

The education finance report highlights the key areas of investment supporting children's access to education, including school fees, learning materials, uniforms, vocational training, and university support.

Education Financial Support Breakdown

Finance Summary

Alongside academic improvement, the children have shown encouraging growth in behaviour, confidence, and responsibility. Most have adapted well to their school environments, with only a few older boys continuing to require additional mentorship and guidance. Boarding school learners have benefited from structured learning environments, while regular engagement with schools through meetings and follow-up visits has helped monitor both academic progress and student welfare.

Although challenges such as school transfers, outstanding school requirements, and literacy gaps have continued to affect the program, strong collaboration with schools and careful planning have enabled children to remain in education.

Resettlement Programs

Resettlement remains one of the program's most important long term goals, representing a child's successful transition from street life into a safe, stable and supportive family environment. Every child undergoes rehabilitation, counselling, family tracing, home assessments and readiness evaluations before reunification.

Resettlement Programme Report

RESETTLEMENT & FAMILY REINTEGRATION PROGRAM

Resettlement Summary

Resettlement remains one of the programme's most important long-term goals, representing a child's successful transition from street life into a safe, stable and supportive family environment. Children undergo rehabilitation, counselling, family tracing, education support, home assessments, and continuous follow-up to ensure that reunification is safe, sustainable, and in the child’s best interest

Achievements

  • During the reporting period, the programme achieved significant progress in resettlement and family reintegration. Six children who had been separated from their families were successfully reunited through family tracing, coordination with authorities, and follow-up support. In addition, two successful resettlements were completed for Ibrahim and Azaru after they underwent rehabilitation, counselling, education support, and readiness assessments. Four boys also voluntarily expressed their desire to return home, demonstrating increased willingness among children to leave street life and reconnect with their families.

  • The program continued providing support to children with complex needs, including two mental health cases following hospital discharge, while ensuring stability through family support and alternative care options where necessary. Education remained a key component of reintegration, with scholastic materials provided and school fees paid directly to schools to improve accountability. To strengthen follow-up and reduce transportation challenges, grouped family follow-up meetings were introduced, allowing program staff to monitor children’s progress while providing families with continued guidance and support.

Major Challenges

  • Economic hardship affecting families.
  • City demolitions disrupting stable housing.
  • Behavioural adjustment after street life.
  • Outstanding school fees.
  • Limited transport for follow-up visits.
  • Pressure on parents and guardians.

Resettlement Impact

Throughout the reporting period, children demonstrated encouraging progress in rehabilitation, education and family reintegration. School attendance improved, families became more engaged, counselling strengthened relationships, and an increasing number of children voluntarily chose to return home. Continuous follow-up remains essential to ensure long-term success and sustainable reintegration.

Resettlement Program Focus

6

Family Reunifications

2

Successful Resettlements

4

Seeking Reintegration

2

Mental Health Cases

3

Alternative School Placement

100%

School Fees Paid Directly


Portrait Image
"Every successful resettlement is a child given another opportunity to grow within the love, protection and stability of a family."


Advocacy Program Report


ADVOCACY PROGRAM PROGRESS REPORT

Driven by the belief that no child should be left without protection and opportunity, the Advocacy Program continued to champion the rights and wellbeing of street children through strategic advocacy, partnerships, and community-driven interventions.

Report Overview

Between February and May, advocacy activities focused on promoting the protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of street-connected children through engagement with police, local communities, government agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.

The reporting period included legal advocacy for detained children, stakeholder meetings, community awareness campaigns, police engagement, rehabilitation planning, temporary shelter support, and vocational opportunities for vulnerable youth.

Despite positive progress in collaboration and community engagement, major challenges remained including mob justice, inadequate rehabilitation services, limited medical support, funding shortages, continued police arrests, and weak implementation of stakeholder commitments.

The reporting period demonstrated the importance of sustained advocacy, stronger institutional collaboration, expanded counseling and rehabilitation services, child-sensitive policing, and community reintegration programs to improve the lives of vulnerable children.

16+

Stakeholder Meetings

4

Months of Advocacy

100+

Children Reached

5+

Partner Organizations

Monthly Advocacy Activity Level

February
8 Activities
March
11 Activities
April
13 Activities
May
12 Activities

Key Achievements

Key Challenges

Recommendations

HEALTH PROGRAMS PROGRESS REPORT

The Street Youth Group Counselling Initiative was established to address the unique needs of older street boys aged 15 years and above, a group that often has fewer opportunities for rescue and placement in shelters. While younger children are more frequently prioritized for rehabilitation and family reintegration, many older boys remain on the streets with limited access to support in different forms.



Six-Month Health Care Report

Health Care Program Progress

Over the past six months, the children in our care have experienced a significant number of health challenges, resulting in increased demand for medical services and higher healthcare costs. Common illnesses included malaria, flu, coughs, bacterial infections, urinary tract infections, typhoid, asthma, and several cases of tuberculosis. Many children required repeated visits to health facilities, while some were sent home from school after first aid treatment proved insufficient. Several children needed more than a week to recover before they were well enough to return to school.

Recurring illnesses, particularly during the school term, were linked to overcrowded sanitation facilities and limited access to safe drinking water at school. These health challenges placed considerable pressure on the medical budget, exceeding the agreed financial arrangement with our healthcare provider and affecting the timely delivery of treatment. Despite these constraints, the children continued to receive the medical attention they required through consultations, medication, laboratory investigations, transportation, and hospital care whenever necessary. To ensure the children's safety, we also purchased medications from pharmacies after concerns arose about medicines supplied through public health facilities that were close to or beyond their expiry dates.

The reporting period also brought several complex medical and social cases. Three girls were diagnosed with HIV after being referred to the program, one of whom disclosed abuse by her stepfather, while the other two were born with the condition. They were referred to a specialized HIV/AIDS center for counseling, treatment, and ongoing care before their planned return to the shelter. During street outreach activities, several children were identified with complicated medical conditions, including severe infected wounds and injuries requiring extensive treatment. Additionally, one girl was involved in an accident but, following medical examination, was found to have no serious injuries and has recovered well. Street outreach activities identified children with severe wounds, injuries, and other complicated medical conditions requiring urgent care.

We remain grateful for the recovery of many children and for the continued support that enables us to provide healthcare services. We continue to pray for healing, protection, and resources to meet the growing medical needs of every child.

Health Challenges Distribution

Distribution of Major Health Cases


Impact Dashboard
2,858 children supported since 2005
211 cases assessed engaged
83 children rescued, rehabilitated & reintegrated
58 children intercepted
34 Caregivers supported under the Family Empowerment Program
121 street outreaches conducted
273 street children received medical services
93 children supported in Education
34 youth acquired skills
116 Children & Youth Empowered to claim their rights
34 Resettled families


DEBORAH LIBRARY PROGRAM

Six-Month Program Report

January – June 2026

Deborah Library Program

1. Introduction

The Deborah Library Program was established to promote reading and writing and, most importantly, to improve literacy in the communities where many children come from low-income and female-headed families. The libraries provide literacy learning and support for these children until they are sponsored to join formal public schools.

We have witnessed a tremendous impact through the libraries, which not only help improve children's literacy levels but also provide them with a safe place to spend the day while their mothers are away at work or engaged in small-scale businesses.

The role of the libraries has grown far beyond what we initially envisioned and planned. This report presents the activities, achievements, challenges, and progress made during the reporting period.

2. Executive Summary

During the six-month period, the Deborah Library Program focused on improving access to books, encouraging reading among children and young people, providing study materials, and creating a safe and supportive learning environment. Due to increased concerns about child abduction in the communities, particularly among young girls, the program extended learning hours to allow children to remain in a safe environment until their mothers or caregivers were available to safely pick them up. This approach enabled the library to continue supporting children's education while also responding to the safety concerns affecting families in the community. The libraries were established to provide these children with a safe and supportive environment where they can develop basic literacy and learning skills while awaiting sponsorship or other opportunities to transition into formal public schools.

Since the establishment of the libraries, we have witnessed a tremendous impact that extends beyond improvements in literacy. The libraries have become safe spaces where children can spend their days learning, reading, interacting, and developing essential skills while their mothers and caregivers are away at work or engaged in small-scale income-generating activities. In this way, the libraries provide both an educational and supportive environment for children while also giving mothers the opportunity to pursue their livelihoods with greater peace of mind.

The role and impact of the libraries have grown far beyond what we initially envisioned and planned. What began primarily as an initiative to provide access to reading materials and improve literacy has developed into a broader community-based support system that contributes to children's education, safety, development, and overall well being.

3. Six-Month Activity Report

Month Main Activities Achievements
January Library organization and registration of users Library resources organized and new children registered
February Reading and study sessions Children participated in regular reading sessions and spellings
March Book collection and educational activities Additional learning materials were made available through books that were donated to us
April Reading awareness activities More children were encouraged to come to the library
May Community and learner engagement Improved participation in library activities
June Evaluation and preparation of report Six-month progress reviewed and documented

4. Key Activities

Reading Programs

The reading activities helped children improve their reading skills, increase their knowledge, and develop a stronger culture of reading. We are continuously encouraging children to read more and to practice speaking as much as possible. This helps them build confidence and improve their ability to understand and communicate what they have read.

For many of the children, especially those who are studying for the first time, reading and pronunciation are still areas of development. Although some children can write, they may still struggle with pronunciation and reading fluently. We recognize that this is a work in progress, and we continue to provide encouragement and practice to help them improve.

Study Sessions

The libraries provide children with quiet, safe, and supportive spaces where they can read, study, and revise their lessons. The libraries also provide basic learning opportunities for children who have never attended school before. This helps them become familiar with a learning environment and prepares them for school when they eventually enroll.

The study sessions also give children access to educational materials that may not always be available at home. Through regular study and reading sessions, children are encouraged to develop positive learning habits and become more comfortable in an educational setting.

Book Management

Textbooks and other learning materials were carefully organized, recorded, and made available to children. A few secondary school children from the community also borrow secondary-level books for personal reading at home.

Proper management of textbooks and other learning materials has helped the program make the best use of its limited resources. It also ensures that the available materials are well maintained and can be shared among many library users.

Community Engagement

The program involved parents and community members in promoting reading, education, and the overall development of children. We invited parents to participate in our community parents' engagement activities and to visit the library to see the progress their children were making.

Parents were encouraged to take time to understand, guide, and counsel their children after participating in the library programs. The wider community was also encouraged to play an active role in raising and supporting children through continuous guidance, counseling, and encouragement.

We believe that when parents and the wider community work together, children have a greater opportunity to grow, learn, and develop into confident and responsible young people.

5. Major Achievements

  • Improved access to reading and learning materials.

    The library has continued to improve access to books and learning materials for children in the community. At the moment, two children can share one book when necessary, while we continue to purchase and add more books to the library collection. This gradual growth is helping us meet the increasing demand for reading materials.

  • Increased participation in reading activities.

    We continue to make reading more fun, enjoyable, and easier for children through drawings, colourful and joyful images, and interactive activities. These approaches encourage children to participate more actively and develop a positive attitude toward reading. As a result, children are becoming more interested and comfortable during reading sessions.

  • Created a better environment for students to study.

    The library provides a welcoming and supportive environment where every child is encouraged to learn and participate. For children who may not have access to basic personal hygiene items at home, we have made toothbrushes, toothpaste, and changing clothes available at the library. This helps promote both learning and better personal hygiene among the children.

  • Encouraged a stronger culture of reading.

    Secondary community school students have increasingly requested to use the library during the evening because many do not have suitable or quiet spaces for studying at home. Allowing them additional time at the library gives them a safe and conducive environment to read, study, and complete their schoolwork. This has encouraged older learners to develop stronger and more consistent reading and study habits.

  • Improved organization of library resources.

    Despite having limited space, we continue to organize and utilize the available area effectively to support library activities. Books and learning materials are arranged in a way that makes them easier for children to access and use. We continue to explore better ways of using the available space to accommodate more learners and strengthen library programs.

6. Challenges

  • Limited number of books and learning materials.

    We continue to have a shortage of books and learning materials across our shelter and community library programs. The available materials are shared among many children, which can limit opportunities for individual reading, practice, and learning. We hope to increase our efforts next year to raise and collect more books and educational materials for the libraries.

  • Limited funding for library activities. Our libraries do not yet receive consistent monthly funding to support their activities and daily operations. This makes it difficult to run some programs regularly and to meet ongoing needs such as learning activities, supplies, and other operational costs. More reliable funding would help us maintain regular programming and provide more consistent services to the children and community.

  • Need for additional furniture and equipment.

    Our libraries continue to need additional furniture and equipment to create safe and suitable learning spaces for children. Much of the existing furniture and equipment is heavily used and requires regular repairs, renovation, or replacement. We hope to gradually improve the libraries by purchasing the materials and furniture needed to support comfortable and effective learning.

  • Need for more community support and volunteers.

    We continue to encourage parents and community members to better understand the importance of giving children time, attention, and guidance. Parents are encouraged to take time to talk with their children, understand what they are learning and experiencing, and provide appropriate counselling and encouragement when they return home each evening. Greater parental involvement can help reinforce what children learn during the programs and provide continued support for their development at home.

7. Conclusion

The first six months of the Deborah Library Program have demonstrated the importance of providing accessible learning resources and a supportive environment for reading and study. Continued support, improved resources and community involvement will help the program achieve greater impact in the coming months.

Women • Community • Impact

Women & Community
Empowerment

Empowering women, strengthening families and building resilient communities through practical programs that create opportunity, dignity and lasting change.

Our Programs

Our women and community programs for the past six months have focused largely on health, sewing, relocation, building and restoring homes, and food and bedding packages. We focused on the immediate illnesses that were most complained about and on the needs that matter most to individuals and communities. From healthcare and housing to skills development and food security, we work together to create stronger and more self-reliant communities.

Healthcare worker supporting a community member
01

Health

During our women’s programs, various women attend, which usually comprises many health challenges that the majority of them struggle with. We often organize a few medical workshops, especially every two months, where volunteering doctors are able to carry out medical check-ups. We often have numerous women struggling with various illnesses and infections, as well as those on ARVs. Those needing guidance on how to go about their conditions and those with illnesses that can be treated receive medications and treatment, while those needing further medical tests are provided with dates.

The camps helped women and their children with minor diseases such as malaria, flu, stomach issues, infections, and refilling medications for the women with chronic illnesses.

FUND A MEDICAL CAMP
Construction and community housing project
02

Building & Restoring Homes

We know how important it is for a family to have a safe and proper home that is safe and comfortable for the children. By comfort, we don’t mean just sleeping well, but the house being in a proper housing situation that is safe and adequate enough. Unfortunately, three of the women in our women and community groups are largely in poor housing conditions. One needs a renovation, and the other two need their houses to be built from the ground up.

At the moment, we don’t have enough funds to renovate and build houses for all the women. So far, what we have managed to do is build temporary small wooden, iron-sheet, and timber housing for the women for the time period as I manage to raise funds for building and restoring homes. Helping families achieve safe and dignified living conditions by supporting the construction, restoration, and improvement of homes within the dire communities.

FUND A HOUSE
Woman working with sewing equipment
03

Sew With Light

We are tremendously very glad to have a small room that we use as our sewing area for the programs. This is a significant part of our program, especially for women. We don’t have many machines as of now, but we have a few that can help within our programs.

The women and the teen mothers are mostly the ones who attend the programs, along with a few youth boys who continue to attend the sewing programs. It is a brilliant time to learn and see how, despite the limited space, we are able to witness tremendous impact on the small scale that we are on right now.

Equipping women and teen mothers with practical sewing skills, tools, and opportunities that can help them build sustainable livelihoods, increase household income, and become economically independent.

BUY A SEWING MACHINE
Fresh food representing food security
04

Food and bedding supplies.

During the programs, we have managed to supply food supplies and packages to the women and teen mothers who are profoundly affected by the economic challenges. We provide food supplies to women and teen mothers two times every month, at least. Any chance we have to reduce the heavy burden that many women carry in their single-led households is important.

We have provided bedding to a few women’s children who have been sleeping in unhealthy conditions, thus creating ease within their homes and providing safety for the children.

FUND A FAMILY FOOD PACKAGE

Empower. Equip. Transform.

When women are empowered and communities are supported, families become stronger and the future becomes brighter. Together, we can create opportunities and build lasting community transformation.





Our Transformative Projects

Creating opportunities, empowering communities and building a stronger future despite limited resources.

Talent Growth

Empowering Potential
Talent Growth Program

⚠ The Struggle

Many of our children have been practicing, especially over the weekends, focusing on drum playing and formations. Since hiring drum players for every practice was becoming quite expensive, we decided it was best for the children to learn to play the drums themselves. This has been a great improvement, although we still face some challenges.

We have only one full set of drums, so the instruments have to be shared and transported between the boys’ and girls’ shelters. The drums also make a lot of noise, which has caused some tension with our neighbors and limited our practice time. Finding a suitable practice space away from nearby residences, while managing the limited number of instruments, remains our biggest challenge.

Talent Development Activities

✦ The Impact

  • Young people discover and develop their talents.

    Almost all of the children are now able to play the drums and participate in different formations, which has been a great achievement. While the girls are still struggling a little more with the drumming and formations, they continue to improve, and the majority of the children are doing very well.

  • Increased confidence and leadership skills.

    The program has helped improve the children's confidence, coordination, and leadership skills. They now understand their individual roles, including who is responsible for each instrument and who takes part in the different formations. This has helped reduce tensions among the children and encouraged them to work together more effectively as a team.

  • Creation of new opportunities for participants.

    The program has also created new opportunities for the children. Three of our children have received partial scholarships at their school as a result of their participation in musical competitions against other schools. This has been a significant achievement and demonstrates how developing their talents can open doors to new opportunities.

  • Greater community participation.

    It has also increased, particularly through our FAR projects. Many children are now coming forward to participate in music activities and help with the different musical arrangements. Parents have also become more involved by attending programs and, in some cases, helping with the drumming sessions. This increased involvement has strengthened the connection between the children, their families, and the wider community.

Far Project

Building Better Futures
FAR Project Activities

⚠ The Struggle

TWith the Far Project, we have our own small piece of land, and hopefully, this coming year we will construct a pit latrine and a simple long shed as we work toward having permanent housing for our programs. For now, we rent space and chairs whenever we hold our programs. Many children, together with their mothers, attend our programs, which are held twice a month.

The Far Project continues to face significant challenges due to limited resources. Emergencies among our beneficiaries often require immediate support, making it difficult to carry out all the planned activities and programs as scheduled.

FAR Project Community Work

✦ The Impact

  • Improved lives within the target communities.

    Our goal is to improve literacy levels among children in the target communities. Many of the children are able to recite and recognize the alphabet and vowels but struggle to write them. We therefore aim to ensure that children first develop strong foundational literacy skills, including the ability to recognize, read, and write basic letters and words

  • Greater access to essential opportunities.

    We have provided mattresses, sanitary ware, and school bags to at least 60 children participating in the programs. Our initial target was to reach 60 children, and we currently have the resources and capacity to extend this support to additional children beyond our initial target.

  • Stronger community engagement.

    We are witnessing increased unity and involvement among parents, who actively participate in discussions concerning the well-being and education of their children. Their continued involvement during parents' meetings has helped us develop plans, identify challenges, and generate ideas together. This engagement is strengthening the community's participation in supporting children's education and development.

  • Positive and sustainable social change.

    Many parents have been highly supportive and have shared valuable ideas on how we can expand our programs. One area of interest is establishing food gardens and a teaching and experimental garden where children can learn through practical activities. These gardens will help children better understand concepts such as photosynthesis, pollination, plant growth, and other aspects of science while connecting classroom learning with real-life experiences.

Despite Limited Resources, The Impact Continues

Conclusion

The Talent Growth and FAR Project programs continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, young people, and families in our communities. Despite challenges such as limited resources, equipment, and suitable facilities, the progress made so far shows the importance and potential of these programs. Through the Talent Growth Program, children have developed their abilities in music, drumming, and performance. The program has also strengthened their confidence, teamwork, coordination, discipline, and leadership skills. The partial scholarships received by three children through musical competitions demonstrate how developing talents can create new educational opportunities.


The FAR Project continues to support children and families through education, basic necessities, and community engagement. Providing mattresses, sanitary ware, and school bags to at least 60 children has helped address some of their immediate needs, while our focus on foundational literacy is helping children build essential educational skills. Increased parent involvement has also strengthened community support for the children. Looking ahead, we are committed to building on these achievements while addressing the challenges we face. Our land provides a foundation for future development, including a pit latrine, simple shelter, and eventually more permanent facilities. We also hope to establish teaching and experimental gardens where children can learn practical skills in agriculture and science.


Overall, the progress of both programs shows that with opportunity, encouragement, and community support, children can develop their talents, strengthen their education, and create new possibilities for their future. We remain committed to working with children, parents, and the wider community to build sustainable opportunities for future generations.

Six-Month Progress Report - Conclusion
Six-Month Progress Report

Conclusion & Outlook

Reflecting on progress, achievements, challenges, and priorities for the next six months

06

Conclusion

The first six months of the year have been marked by encouraging progress across the different areas of our children's development. We are grateful to God, our staff, teachers, partners, and supporters whose continued commitment has contributed greatly to the children's academic, social, emotional, and personal growth.

Overall Progress

During this reporting period, we have observed positive improvements in school attendance, classroom participation, academic performance, discipline, confidence, vocational development, and the general well-being of the children. These achievements demonstrate the value of continued encouragement, guidance, and investment in their future.

Achievements

Most children have demonstrated encouraging academic progress and improved participation in school. Children enrolled in vocational training have gained confidence and begun taking up placements, while our university students continue to adapt well to higher education and its challenges.

Challenges

Despite the progress achieved, some challenges remain. These include providing additional academic support to children experiencing learning difficulties and securing sufficient funding for school and university tuition.

Priorities for the Next Six Months

✓
Strengthen academic, reading, and writing support for children who require additional assistance.
✓
Continue supporting children's personal, social, and emotional development.
✓
Support vocational students as they continue with placements and skills development.
✓
Provide assistance to children transitioning to university and help meet their tuition requirements.
✓
Continue promoting the overall health, safety, education, and well-being of every child.
“

We sincerely appreciate everyone who continues to invest in the lives and future of these children. Your support is making a meaningful difference and giving them greater opportunities to grow, learn, develop their talents, and become responsible and independent members of society.

Looking Ahead with Hope

Together, we remain committed to building brighter futures for every child entrusted to our care.

Six-Month Progress Report Pages 12