We arrived back in Maungeni to find many of our friends awaiting our arrival for Zone 19 Salon, a tradition started last year to give manicures, pedicures and massage to our friends here in Malungeni.
The journey continued with our first stop at Canzibe Hospital, a government owned healthcare facility that serves approximately 160,000 local residents. A minimal staff serves patients with HIV/AIDS, TB, Occupational and Physical rehab, OB/GYN needs and malnutrition. We were delighted to see some long overdue improvements to the physical environment, something we have not see in years. Arm In Arm In Africa delivered a large amount of medical supplies, which doubled their medical stock. We want to again thank those at home that made this possible.
This tradition originated to serve the 6 women who prepare the meal we furnish for the community and has now grown to about 40 women and men. It is a sight to behold and a joy to share.
We arrived back in Malungeni to prepare for one of the quarterly food distributions. This community self selects who will receive emergency food relief with each distribution.
Today we celebrated with 80 families as they received their food parcel. A food parcel consists of flour, cooking oil, maize, beans, samp, rice, sugar and a large bag of chicken and will feed their family for approximately one month. We heard from two spokesmen from the community expressing their gratitude to AIAIA for the years we have been assisting them.
Our day concluded with a "walk about" in the surrounding community. It is a joy to encounter the children and families who have become so much a part of our lives over the years. It is an truly experience of coming home.
Peace and blessings,
Thanks for all the blog updates. It kept us all connected with our family and friends while they were in Africa. It also educated me about the work and mission of Arm In Arm In Africa.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks!