Education…the way out of poverty

As we have been here there has been one main thing that has constantly been pushed and encouraged towards these kids; their education. With all of the poverty here in Tanzania, the only real way to get out of it is through education. I am so grateful that God has given these kids the opportunity to receive an education, which is very difficult to get here in Tanzania. One of the girls on our team even made the comment, that if she had to go through all they have to just to go to school, she would have dropped out way before the point they are even at. Despite the fact that their school fees are covered, there are still many obstacles that keep them from getting the most out of their education.

Today was their first day back to school after being on break for about a month. So yesterday we gave all of the kids their shoes (a pair of school shoes, and a pair of athletic shoes). It was a huge blessing to be able to give the kids these shoes they desperately needed. So thank you, to anyone who took part in the “step into each other’s shoes” project. These kids were so happy to receive the shoes you so generously donated, and I wish you could have been here to see it! I have posted a few pictures below for you to see!

Yesterday, we also took the secondary students shopping for much needed school supplies. We purchased two sets of textbooks (which they did not even have before), one for the girls to share and one for the boys to share. We also were able to purchase them notebooks, writing utensils, backpacks, rulers, mathematical sets, and a few other things. We are hoping to talk with them a little more this week, and figure out what else they need so we can get it for them before we leave. But again, THANK YOU on behalf of all of the kids. If it weren’t for your generous support, it would not have been possible for us to provide any of these supplies for them. Through your help and support, these kids will have fewer obstacles keeping them from their education, and be better prepared for school. I don’t think I can say thank you enough for providing these kids with the opportunity to get the education they deserve.

Last week, we had a bible study with the boys and one verse that was shared with them was Jeremiah 29:11. It says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." We shared with them that they will go through hard times that will test their faith. Yet, God does not want to harm them, and will be right there with them through it all. That even when things become really hard, they must continue to put their hope and trust in the Lord. When they give full control over to Him, He will give them hope for something better, and will give them a future. We shared with them, that He is already watching over them, taking care of them. He is the reason that they are going to school, and getting the education they need. He is providing the people and funds necessary for them to have a better future, a better life.

My prayer for them, is that each one of these kids, no matter where they are or what they are doing will grow up to become amazing men and women devoted to God, willing and able to go wherever He calls them. That God will continue to be with each one of them, guiding them, and bringing others to Himself through their lives.

In Christ with love,

Jordan