Front view

Side view

Already the two lower floors – the younger boys and older boys’ residences – are being used.  The kitchen has now been completed with the addition of a stove and oven, funded by Roberta Bondar P.S. in Brampton and Alexander Graham Bell P.S. in Whitby.

Once again we had a tremendous donation from Christ the King in Whitehorse under the leadership of teacher, Tanis Giczi – they raised $2434.56!

Christ the King is the very first school to support Rolling Hills Residence for an entire month!  For the month of July their donation provides the food, medical care, school supplies, and clothing for all of the children in the residence, the salaries of the matron, tutor and night watchman, and the electricity, water and sanitation for the entire building.

This picture was taken in the almost completed Whitehorse Room – named in honor of the previous fund raising efforts of both Christ the King and Jack Hulland School in the Yukon.  Tanis has also agreed that the remaining funds that they donated will be used to finish the dining hall – purchasing tables and paint.

Another picture in the Whitehorse Room – it just makes me smile!

Brigadoon P.S. – Kitchener

At Brigadoon P.S we have a group called Global Leaders. Global leaders are a group of grade 6 students. We try to make a better future for people around the world who aren’t as fortunate as us. We hold many different fundraisers to raise money for charities. One of the recent fundraisers that we had was Cupcake Day, in which we asked families to donate cupcakes that we sold for a dollar each. We raised $550 that we gave to the Creation of Hope charity.

 And here’s what we did with the donation from Brigadoon

A donation from our Friends and Sponsors in Nova Scotia

Dear Anita and Eric,

We held our 3 day Vacation Bible School during the March Break – March 13, 14, 15 – we had to postpone the last day because of a fluke snowstorm so on the 16^th our numbers were down of course.  We had 21 children for the first 2 days.  I made up posters with photos taken from Creation of Hope’smonthly updates and told the kids about their friends in Kikima.  They were excited and attentive.  We sent home this letter I made up so parents could visit the site if they wanted.  We thought things went quite well.  I’ll send along some photos as soon as my friend gets them to me.  Use the money as you see fit.

Hope all is well.

Barb,

 St. Xavier H.S. in Ottawa

Dear Mr. Walters,

We are the faith Mentors of St. Francis Xavier High School in Ottawa, Ont.  You visited our school in the beginning of the year, and introduced us to the idea of supporting and raising money for the Creation of Hope Orphanage.  We are proud to announce that we have raised enough money to keep the orphanage going for the week (with $325.00).  We raised the money by selling popcorn at lunch, and doing chores at our homes.

We can’t thank you enough for inspiring us and we hope all is well at the Creation of Hope Orphanage.

Sincerely,

The Faith Mentors 7/8

We will be using this donation to support the Rolling Hills Residence for 1 week in August!

Fairview P.S. in Mississauga

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Walters,

We are a group of girls in Ms. Trevisan’s grade three class at Fairview Public School. With the help of the rest of our class we decided to make bracelets and sell them to the rest of our school to help raise some money for Kikima. During the months of February and March we did this and made $135 to help buy things for people in Kikima and to help give them hope.

We love helping people and we hope this money we raised will help.  As a class, we decided we would like to buy some uniforms so some students could attend school and to provide for a day of support at the orphanage.

Central Park Public School in Markham

Hi Eric,
We communicated in March about a small fundraiser at our school. Following a presentation from Marina Cohen, the kids decided to put their earnings toward your charity.

This class is a terrific group and it has been a total pleasure to teach them this year. I have said recently that when they hit the big world, we will be in good hands!

The following is the letter the students have written for you:
Best wishes,
Elizabeth Gilbert
Gr 8, Science, Art
Intermediate Lead
CPPS

Hello. Our names are Emily and Faustina. We are two grade eight girls from Central Park Public School in Markham, Ontario. The idea of the bake sale started in late September when we were participating in the Terry Fox Run/Walk. We were inspired to raise funds for charity to save lives like Terry Fox did.

We are both competent at baking, so we decided to have a bake sale. With help from other students the ideas became actions. We were able to gather some generous student volunteers to help with the baking.

When the day of the bake sale arrived, we were ready with platters of cupcakes, cookies, brownies and even cake balls (which were delicious). It was a success as many hungry teachers were lured in.

Afterwards we donated every cent to the Creation of Hope to make sure that at least one person’s life is affected positively by our efforts.

We enjoyed baking and preparing for the sale but we are even more thrilled to know that we made a change in someone’s life.

Lorne Park Baptist Church

I presented at an evening event at Lorne Park Baptist Church.  They made a $250.00 donation which supported the Rolling Hills Residence for 5 days.

Andrew Menezes – purchased a book from me and then donated the $5.00 change – this will buy a blanket for a young person in Kenya!

A donation of $100 by Geri and Don Moroney in memory of Joshua Rewa

A teacher, Kennie, purchased a book and donated the change, $7.00 to the program.  That will be dedicated to purchasing a chicken for a needy orphan

Debby Carson – $250.00 after a presentation in her school in Brantford

Glendale Public school  continues to support their sponsored child on a monthly basis with student donations.

Kate Dawber $200.00 for sports equipment

Fred Dawber $100.00 for sports equipment

Their donations for sports equipment will be given to the local school in July – when Kate is there!

Twelve more goats funded by Fairview!

Literacy Date in Durham

On April 4^th we held a Literacy Day in Oshawa for students of The Durham Board of Education.  This was held at the newly renovated theatre at Eastdale C.I. It was organized by John MacDonald and Isabelle Hobbs and was attended by 600 students, from 21 schools which each made a donation to attend the event.  Students got to hear presentations from young adult authors Kathy Kacer, Ted Staunton, Teresa Toten, Shane Peacock and myself.

Special thanks to the authors for donating their time and for John and Isabelle for all the organization.

Thanks to Henry and Ingrid for paying for these students  in the following picture to have new school uniforms.

Wish Lists

One of our wonderful Kenyan sponsors, Koki, has also made a commitment to provide additional food donations to specific children who have compromised health concerns.

Sponsorship of Orphans

We have ‘capped’ our sponsorship program at 115.  This is as a result of simply reaching the capacity of what one family in Canada and one family in Kenya can operate in a way that reflects the personal nature of the program.  We have three people who are on our ‘wait’ list who will be considered when other sponsorship opportunities become available.

This month we have two new sponsors taking over existing sponsorship situations.  Our daughter Christina and her husband Marc are the new sponsors of Mulwa and Cheryl Leggat Hamilton and her family are now the sponsor of Nduku Mbula.

We continue to gratefully accept support and ongoing donations for the program.

Here is a picture of Lynda being received by Willie.

We look forward to our upcoming trip to Kkima in June and July.  One of our activities will be to participate in a birthday celebration for all 115 sponsored orphans. We are in the process of collecting small and light weight items that would be suitable to fill in loot bags for this event.  If anybody reading this update has something suitable to contribute, please let us know.  The excitement for the trip mounts!

This view shows the dining hall/study area/kitchen (in white), the girls’ residence and office above that, and a new ‘5^th’ story going up to house the library and additional offices

The new building is also going to be named after Rolling Hills – the school that continues to be our strongest supporter.

The 4^th floor, the girls’ residence is named in Honor of Diana

The ‘heart’ of the whole building is the kitchen.  This stove – which can be fueled by either wood or methane from our bio-gas plant was funded by money raised by Alexander Graham Bell School and Roberta Bondar P.S.

This is Mr. Kiio – our project co-ordinator – wearing a shirt given to me by Alexander Graham Bell P.S. – it was big enough for me so he was the only one who could wear it!

The building is being finished and occupied and utilized floor by floor.  The two lower levels – the younger boys and older boys residences are finished and in use.  The next floor, the dining hall/study area and kitchen are almost finished and already in use.  The dining hall is called The Whitehorse Room in honour of two schools in Whitehorse which raised funds that were put towards this project.

This is the Whitehorse Room already in use – the chairs funded by Liz Dilla

The work continues and it is scheduled that the girls will soon be in their residence on the fourth floor and that the official dedication and opening of all floors will take place in June or July.

Donations

I must admit that I am never as touched by a donation as when at the end of a presentation a student comes up and gives money from their pocket.  David, of St. Therese of the Child Jesus, donated $5.00 – all the money that he had – and a child will receive a blanket with that and will be warm.

Dear Mr. Walters,

The classes of 8A and 8C at Roberta Bondar Public School are proud to say that we have raised over $400 for your organization  Creation of Hope. After you had your presentation at our school library we were touched that you are helping the kids of Africa with schooling. The month after was December and our class thought about your foundation so instead of putting money towards things like Secret  Santa, a party, and teacher Christmas presents [which we still did], we decided  that we should give kids in Africa a Christmas present. We believe the money has been put into good hands and all of it will be used to benefit kids with uniforms, paper, pencils, or a better school – whatever you decide.

Sincerely,

Stephen Sanichara

Dear Creation of Hope,

This donation comes from our Clean Plate Club at Conrad Grebel University College at the University of Waterloo, where students commit to not wasting food or donate to a charity.  We collected $133.00 this term and would like to donate the entire amount to Creation of Hope where the money is needed most/would be most beneficial.

Thank you,

Jane Honek, Conrad Grebel University College Food Representative

Brigadoon P.S. in Kitchener, under the direction of Kim Austin donated $550.00 raised by their social justice club.  As you have seen above, this money has already been put to use to purchase the stove used to feed our children on a daily basis, provide meals for over 200 orphans each food distribution day, and also help to feed people gathered for conferences and meetings at the centre (and the fees donated back to run the program).

Dear all,

Our friends from Aviation and General Security came calling again yesterday – the first time of four visits planned for this year. They came to spend time with the children, visit the property and share a meal with us. Along with them they brought food worth Ksh. 26,000. I hope this can go on the website again. These are good friends indeed.  Look at the photos.

Ruth Kyatha
Program Manager

The contributions from Kenya – which are constant and increasing – are an example of not only how the program is being accepted and endorsed by Kenyans but their personal commitment to help their own people.  This remains the direction we want to  move with the  program, with decisions being made by people on the ground and ultimately the whole program being run in Kenya by Kenyans.

Amanda and Jon are getting married on August 4^th, 2012.  Instead of giving wedding favors to their guests at the wedding reception, they have donated money to support the entire Rolling Hills Residence for 8 days.  What a kind and generous way to start their lives together as a married couple.  Congratulations Amanda and Jon!

Paul Nerino, who along with his family sponsors Benjamin, helped facilitate the following donations:

$50.00 from Suzanne Morrison,

$50.00 from Social Committee in memory of Maria Staring

$40.00 from Gord West

Heather the owner of Ella Minnow Books, and her family, donated for wishlists.  Kay thinks these can be filled within the next month.

Lyn Mark and Claire Floras and the Witty Knitters Club made a donation.

Our good friends at Kettle Lakes Public school raised another $400 from a ‘toonies for tunes’ program where students donated a toonie and dedicated a chosen song to be played on the P.A.  We have already spent this money on uniforms!

In addition, previous money from Kettle Lakes was also spent on uniforms.  The importance of uniforms cannot be over-estimated.  Without uniforms ,  the children are not allowed to attend school.

Notice the ‘stars’ on a number of foreheads – I’m not sure why they have them but they do seem awfully proud!

As well ,other funds from Kettle Lake were used to purchase 26 more chickens for orphans in the community.

And since we are talking about Kettle Lakes, the final part of their donations was used to provide for the funding of the entire Rolling Hills Residence for these days.

School fees for high school childen

We have 19 children in different grades, types and levels,  enrolled in secondary school across Kenya.  There is a wide range in the tuition costs based on the type of school.  As well, each child is equipped with school supplies, uniforms,  and books, as well as transportation costs to get them to school.  The first year is much more expensive than other years because of the addition costs to equip the students in this manner.

The total cost for these 19 students was $4693.55.  Here is how these children were sponsored.

Andrew-Si-We-Yah Scholarship:

Faith Nthenge at Mbooni AIC Girls School – Grade 12

Wilson Musau Mutindi at Mbuani Secondary – Grade 10

Ruth Nduku Kalewa at Mbooni Girls School – Grade 10

Total $810.00

Jack Hulland School – Whitehorse – project led by Sara Tillet:

Mutie Luka at Tututha Secondary School – Grade 9

Eric Mulwa Muendo at Tuthutha Secondary School – Grade 9

Teddy Mutua at Tuthutha Secondary School – Grade 9

Total $959.00

Probus Club of Brampton:

Annastasia Mutindi at Mitabonie ABC Girls Secondary School – Grade 9

Total $326.00

Sharon Freeman:

John Mutuku Wambua at Muvuti Seconday – Grade 10

Mercy Mwende Katumo at St. Mary’s Girl High School – Grade 10

Kitoo Kariuki at Kyuu Secondary School – Grade 10

Sarah Makau at Mbooni Girls Secondary – Grade 11

Nicholas Mwanzia at Kamweleni Secondary – Grade 11

Total: funded by a donation made by Sharon and $100.00 from Marina Cohen for Kitoo

Sandy Inglis:

Justina Kalee Kimeu at Kikima Secondary School – Grade 9

Funded by Sandy

Eric and Anita Walters:

Mary Wanza Makau at Mbooni AIC Secondary – Grade 10

Funded by Eric and Anita

Cindi Sisti and Kettle Lakes P.S.:

Gloria Ndunge Ngovi at Mbooni AIC Secondary – Grade 9

$100 from Cindi and $255 from Kettle Lakes P.S. total $355.00

Kettle Lakes

Eric Ngila Mule at Mbooni boys Secondary School – Grade 10

Sharon Mutinda at Ndoo Secondary School – Grade 12

Total $461.00

Vanier Catholic School – Whitehorse – led by Emily Ross:

Doreen Chizi Joseph – Mbooni Girls School – Grade 9

Total $458.00

This tuition is so high because not only is entering the school with all of the associated costs, but this is a very high level school.  Doreen entered with the highest marks of any student we have ever been involved with.

We would like to thank all the individuals and schools who contributed to furthering the education of these deserving students.  Education will make an immense difference in their futures!

(click for a larger image)

Faith is our first high school student to have her tuition funded.  She is now in Grade 12 and will be graduating this coming December.  She is a bright, dedicated, and grateful student who has taken full advantage of the opportunity given to her by the program.  Faith’s  potential and her inability to reach that potential without support,  were first brought to our attention when Lisa was doing a three month placement in Faith’s school.

Special Presents from Sponsors:

Mulwa’s birthday party supported by his sponsor Laurie and Eric on Wednesday March 7.

A present from Birgitta for her sponsored child Juliet

A blanket hand-made with love by Sue for her child Lorna

Presents, including some wonderful art work made by Sydney for Mwithi Mbula the child sponsored by Stephanie and her children Sydney and Gavin

School books for Raphael from his sponsor Richard

School books for Christopher Mule from his sponsor Ruth

Naomi receiving a watch from Janice and Art and a sock monkey from Clarkson S.S.

Funds Used

A lunch for all the students of Kyangoma School provided by Liz Dilla!

$565.00 in funds donated by Lasalle P.S. were used to supplement  food distribution in January and February

These bunk beds were funded by a donation from Tina.  As always we strive to have things made locally – this is a shop in Kikima.  This purchase will allow the owner to buy locally and provide for the needs of his family.

30 orphans each received a goat thanks to the Fairview students!

A present from children’s illustrator Werner – who also provided funds for uniforms

New donations for the library – the only library in all of Mbooni District – named after my wonderful, amazing Grade 5 teacher, Miss Christena Gay

Wishlists

Safari Peter receiving his wish list from Kelly Mahoney

Kilonzo Mutuku receiving his wish list from the Krahn family

Daily Support of Rolling Hills Residence – $50.00 provides food for 44 children, their school supplies, clothing, medical treatment, the salaries of the matron, night watchman, tutor, and the electricity, water and sanitation for the entire building.

Children Receiving Pictures of their new Sponsors

Ezekeil with Constanza

Michael with Dale

Musau with Christina

Mutuku with Brigitte

Victoria with Craig

Once again we wish to close by acknowledging the generosity, energy and thoughtfulness of so many!  It is with such support that our organization has continued to experience the growth and success it has.  Thank you to all!

The Kenyan school year is more in line with the calendar year with children starting in a new grade or school in January.  We’re all aware of the transitions we see here in Canada when a child leaves elementary school behind and starts high school.  This transition is even more significant for young people in Kenya.  Throughout their grade eight year they studied for the entrance exams which took place in November and December.  These marks determined if they can go to high school and the ‘level’ they can attend.  Higher marks open up possibilities for better schools.

As well, these schools are most often residential schools.  The young person goes away to live – often very far away from home and family.

This is also a very busy time for Kay and Ruth.  Not only must they prepare the children (clothing, school supplies, school books, ‘kits’, basic supplies) but then bring the young person to their school.  Last year one of our students was admitted to a school that was basically on the far side of Kenya!

Anastasia with some of her supplies, proudly and happily, heading off to school.  The Probus Club of Brampton made a contribution that provided for her school year.

Ndunge’s school kit provided by Chris and her coworkers

This year we are proud to announce that we have 19 children in high school!

Thirteen of these children have sponsors with Creation of Hope

1. Mary Wanza Makau
2. Kitoo Kariuki
3. John Mutuku Wambua
4. Sarah Nzilani Makau
5. Nicholas Mwanzia Mbatha
6. Mercy Mwende Katumo
7. Justina Kalee Kimeu
8. Eric Mulwa Muendo
9. Gloria Ndunge Ngovi
10. Teddy Mutua
11. Samuel Mutie Luka
12. Annastacia Munyiva Mutindi
13. Doureen Chizi Kakuvi

Six are not sponsored but are supported through the fund raising of The Creation of Hope.  They are either related to a sponsored child or were simply identified by the community or schools as having great potential but no financial ability.

1. Erricson Mulinge Mbevi
2. Faith Nthenge Muthini
3. Eric Ngila Mule
4. Ruth Nduku Kalewa
5. Wilson Musau Mutindi
6. Sharon Mutinda

Of these children the first, Faith Nthenge Muthini, is now in her last year of high school.  While we have had one young lady graduate from trade school, Faith will be our first high school graduate in December.

(A Late) Christmas in Kikima

Many of our sponsors provide funds for something extra for their child at Christmas.  Others send over letters or parcels.  Mail from Canada to Kenya is, well, somewhat adventurous, and often takes a long time.  Many of these gifts were mailed in October and November just arrived and were presented to the children.

Mutunga receiving a letter from Wendy and Barb

Muthina receiving a parcel from Barb Munich – Barb is one of a group of sponsors who will be joining us in Kenya this summer.  One of my personal highlights will be introducing sponsors to their children!

Fatema – one of our youngest supporters – has made another $50.00 donation this month.  Please thank Fatema again from all of us.

Steve, who lives in Canada, but is originally Nigerian visited the program.  He left not only  a positive impression on the children but a gift for them all.

53 children with 53 new pairs of shoes!  Thanks Steve!

Birthday supplies for Mutinda provided by his sponsor Barb Miller

Eric and Barb and their Sunday school group at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Nova Scotia raised money to support all of Rolling Hills Residence for 4 days.

Fairview Public School

Dear Ruth and Kay,

Here is our partial contribution for $2107.80 for your village.  Please use a portion of this towards the purchase of goats for the families.  If you recall that was Samantha Crawford’s goal.  The rest please use to take care of our foster child Mbithi Mutheu and the greatest needs of your community.

Thanks,

Fairview P.S.

Vanier Catholic Secondary School

Emily Ross is a sponsor, a talented musician and a member of the Vanier Social Justice Club at Vanier Catholic Secondary School in Whitehorse Yukon.  They raised and donated $500.00 for the program.

New sponsors:

1. Birgitta Barlet has now sponsored Juliet Mbithe Keli
2. The Krahn family has now sponsored Emanuel Muuo Mumo

3. Jason and Nirmala have now sponsored three kids: Mutuku Ngumbi, Chris Mumo and Kyalo Mulili

4. Nicole Kidman has now sponsored Kyalo Kavengwa

5. Dave Reyenga has now sponsored Mualuko Mwanza
6. Christina Ashmore has now sponsored Musau Mueni
7. Contanza Leon has now sponsored Ezekiel Mwongela.

Here’s a shot from last month’s sponsorship.

These pictures mean a lot to the children – to see the real person who has changed their life.

With these sponsors added we are on the verge of closing off our sponsorship program to new children.  This is a combination of factors – the neediest have been sponsored – and the simple limitations of our program.  The Canadian component of our program is literally run off our dining room table by my wife, Anita, and I, while in Kenya it is Ruth and Kay.

We are cautious to not grow so big that we’ll lose the ability to be personal and responsive.  We also do not want to dilute the effectiveness of our service by stretching our limited man power and resources. The remaining children to be sponsored are on our webpage.  Over time as new children are in need of sponsorship  – or the emergence of children needing to be re-sponsored – we will have other opportunities.

We still need and welcome support for specific projects, for ongoing needs such as school uniforms and for supporting the entire Rolling Hills Residence ($50.00 per day).

Granted wishlists:

1. Safari Peter’s wishlist has been granted by Kelly Mahony
2. Kilonzo Mutuku’s wishlist has been granted by the Krahn family

A Family Loss

We wish to extend our sincere condolences to our Program Director in Kikima, Ruth Kyatha and her entire family, on the death of Ruth’s mother Serah Mbuve Kiundi on January 23 2012 who lived into her 95^th year.  The Walters family had the opportunity to meet and visit with Serah in 2008.  She was a very strong woman of faith who believed in education for her daughters as well as her sons when she was a poor widow caring for 9 children decades ago. Such a commitment to education of females at that time was very unusual.  Her character and strength is reflected as her legacy is carried on through her large and accomplished extended family including our incredible staff – Ruth Kyatha and Kay Mutinda.

We have made a commitment to our children that we will fund whoever earns sufficient marks to attend high school.  This began with one child, Faith, who will be starting grade 12 this month.  In addition there are now twenty other students in high school.  While many were returning for grades 10, or 11, those just beginning had to be ‘outfitted’ with the school uniform, clothing and toiletries, school supplies and text books.  While the final costs are still being tallied it is going to cost approximately $4,500 in total for the tuition fees of these children.  Some of the funds both previously raised and donated this month will go toward these fees.  In February we hopefully will have a full accounting of these on the website.

As always the monthly food distribution took place.  This month, as always, approximately 1.2 metric tons of food was given out which impacts over 400 orphans and their extended families.  In addition this is the time when ‘wishlists’, letters, parcels, beds, uniforms, goats and chickens are given out.

Construction of the new Rolling Hills Residence continues.  It is a massive undertaking.  Already the boys reside in part of the new building and the dining hall is being put to use.  Hopefully in the nest month (or so) the girls will move into their new floor.

Funds Raised

Here’s a letter from a young girl who has put her heart, and time, into helping the children of Kikima.

My name is Fatema Zahra Kermali.  I am seven years old.  A few months ago, I
started crocheting Neck Cozies for people to wear in the winter.  I sold a
few to family and friends and  I collected some money and decided that the
money should go to charity.  Creation of Hope was brought to my attention by
a family friend and right away I wanted to help the children in Kenya.
Please accept my donation and I look forward to being able to help some more
very soon.

The money donated by Fatema supported all of the children of Rolling Hills Residence for one day.

Musical Fund Raiser

The Winter Melodies concert was held at the Unitarian Congregation hall in Mississauga on the evening of December 21^st, 2011.  There was classical, contemporary, holiday and cultural music performed by a string quartet, a flute quintet, numerous pianists, a trumpet player, and players of the Chinese and Vietnamese cultural instruments “Gu Zheng” and “Dan-Tranh”.  

The artists created hand-made crane earrings, 3D origami animals, and cut-out cards for the holidays.  All performers and artists attending the Winter Melodies concert are students of Glenforest Secondary School.  This event was planned and organized by the members of Artists Inspiring Miracles (AIM), which is an independent fundraising committee run completely by high school students who want to contribute to the great vision of Creation of Hope. ”

Special thanks to Hanna and Mary, the organizers of this event.  The sum of  $782.96, raised by Mississauga high school musicians, will be used to pay high school tuitions for Kenyan students.

Clarkson Secondary School Donation

Support from Queen’s University

Dear Creation of Hope

Please find enclosed a cheque in the amount of $380.00, raised this fall by students in Queen’s University’s Music 171 “The Social History of Popular Music” class.   Classmates Nicole Chapman and Emily Dawber launched this initiative after a class in which we looked at Live Aid and Ethiopian famine relief efforts in the mid-1980s.

Please use these funds in any way you see fit.

Thank you for your work.

Merry Christmas

 Robb MacKay

Lecturer, Queen’s School of Music

This money was used to supplement our costs for the January food distribution.  Emily’s sister, Kate, volunteered in the program for two months and will be going back this summer.  Our volunteers remain involved, as seen in the next contribution.

Individual Donations

Andy Dilla spent two months in our program last year as a volunteer.  He is now in medical school.  He and his family continue to support the program.  One of their more recent donations became a water tank and collection system at the school, Kyangoma, where Andy volunteered.

Andy’s mother – Liz – who also spent time in the program, made a donation of $350.00 along with a $50.00 donation from her friends, Charles and Jean Kibler.  This money, in celebration of Liz’s birthday, will be used for a meal for all of the children of Kyangoma.

Below are a number of individual donations – some of which have gone directly to our daily sponsorship or Rolling Hills Residence.  $50.00 per day provides food for 44 children, their school supplies, clothing, medical care, the salaries of the matron, night watchman and tutor, and the electricity, water and sanitation for the entire building.

A donation from Dr. Lisa Bentley

A donation from Eleanor and Mabel’s Fables

A donation from Kathryn Mathisen

A donation form Sandra Gray

A donation from Marybeth McTeague

Barb and Eric Ross are sponsors in the program.  The Sunday School in their church is small – 6 children ranging in age from 2 to 10.  They held a concert and raised $200.00!  They are allowing us to use the money where it would most benefit the children of Kikima.

$75.00 from Bradley and Christina Ashmore

$50 from John and Lois Salter

$25 from G.Y. Millette

$200 from Lula and Adriana Field

$50 Glenn Bonsal

$150 Kienna Mulroy

$40 Norm & Amber Dashwood in honor of Ryan Rumsby and Mrs. Perry for Christmas gifts

A donation from Susan Corbett

A donation from Kim Spurgeon

Ian Robertson – an incredibly generous donation of $1000.00 to be used for construction costs to finish the building

$2.75 from Marg where the ‘jammer bags’ are sold

An incredibly generous donation from Brigitte Giesler

Werner Zimmerman and Jo Ellen Bogart donated money to buy a goat.

Thenusha donated $10.00, which is from her birthday money.  She is a student at Alexander Graham Bell, and as you can see from the picture below, this is a school that continues to make generous donations to support the children of Kikima.  This is a thank you picture from a donation made previously by Alexander Graham Bell, under the direction of Barb Kettle.

Sharon Wilson, and her students in Jack Hulland E.S. in Whitehorse raised money to support our entire Rolling Hills program for ten days.

Here are two more pictures, as thanks, which have already been sent to the people who made contributions to the program.

Sponsorship

We have been fortunate to add more sponsors this month and to provide for more of the orphans of Mbooni district.  At present we have more than 110 sponsors who are providing direct monthly support.  This support does more than simply provide for their sponsored child.  As well as the sponsored child, their siblings and cousins who reside in their homesteads benefit from food distribution, wish lists, seeds and tools and other contributions that are provided to the extended family.

We are, and shall remain, a small organization, run by one family in Canada and one family in Kenya.  Originally we felt if we ever had the involvement of 100 sponsors, we would basically cover the needs of the most vulnerable orphans in Mbooni District.  We did a reassessment and made a decision to ‘stretch’ ourselves because we were able to identify an additional 25 children and felt we could provide service effectively to this extent.

We have posted the last group of children needing to be sponsored.  When these children are sponsored we will be ‘closing’ the sponsorship list.  This doesn’t mean that we still do not need support or ongoing funding for Creation of Hope community outreach or child support projects. We feel, however, we cannot provide service and information to a larger number of one to one direct sponsors and children, in the same transparent, accountable and immediate manner if we were to try to become larger. We are clear that we know our limit.

We look forward to the preparations of the group sponsor trip taking place this July and to the many activities taking place in upcoming months! Thanks for your support.

This group photo of many of our children wearing their new clothing, was taken at the December food distribution.  These clothes become treasured Christmas gifts.  Each sponsor received pictures of their child wearing their new clothes.

Enjoy these following pictures.  Look at the shy smiles and looks of pride!

Baraka

Mercy

Victoria

Faith

Along with new clothing and shoes some of the children received presents and letters or parcels from their sponsors.  We try to give back to each sponsor pictures of their child with the thing that has been sent for them.  Sometimes the letters or parcels arrive quickly, other times it takes weeks or even months.  So far everything sent has eventually arrived – we’re keeping our fingers crossed for the future!

Lorna with a Christmas letter from Sue & Brian

Ndaisi with a parcel from Barb & Eric

In addition the food distribution days often are used to give out wish lists, special presents, and special requests.  Two of our children received an incredible donation of 10 chickens each from their sponsors.

Mwendwa David’s chickens from Marc

Kanini Beth’s chickens from Marian and David

A gift like this – $80.00 for ten chickens – makes a significant change in the ongoing life of a child and their extended family.  Thanks to Marc, Marian and David.

Chickens were a major theme at this past distribution.  In reading the November update you would know of the efforts made by Kettle Lakes Public School to raise money to buy chickens.  Here are the first of the chickens being given out.

In the coming weeks the rest of the chickens – as well as other things funded by Kettle Lakes – will be posted.

In the background of those pictures you might notice slats and posts for beds.  As always the food distribution days were used to give out wish list items and the specific pictures were sent to the person who provided the funds.

Approval and Registration

Our program, as with all children’s residences in Kenya, is under the direct supervision of the government.  They have requirements, regulations and inspect facilities.  We have just received our three year certificate!  This is a testament to the great work being done on the ground.

Supporting Rolling Hills Residence for a Day

One of our new initiatives this year is to have schools or individuals provide direct support for the Rolling Hills Residence.  $50.00  pays for the entire Rolling Hills residence program for one day – this includes food, clothing, school supplies, medical treatment, the salaries of the matron, night watchman and tutor, and pays for the electricity, water and sanitation for the entire program.  We return a personal ‘thank you’ to each person who made the donation.

This new initiative has become so successful that we have daily sponsorship throughout all of January (you’ll see the signs in the January update) from Alexander Graham Bell P.S. and almost all of February from a variety of schools and individuals.  March is still open for sponsorship!

High school results

Late November and early December are not just the end of the Kenyan school year but also the time that Grade 8 students ‘sit’ their high school entrance exams.  This is an extremely important event for these children as it determines whether they can attend high school and the type of high school.  Many of our children wrote these exams and we will know in early January not only their marks but the schools they will be accepted to attend.  We anticipate we will have 20 children in high school and the funding for their education is through the Andrew Curling Scholarship fund.  The cost will be approximately $5000.00 for the combined school tuition for all these children.  We have funds that have been already raised by Kelly Betts and from individual donations and schools that have made contributions.

School Fund Raising:

Alexander Graham Bell Public School in Ajax Ontario, under the direction of Barb Kettle, remains one of our most dedicated group of students.  Below is a letter outlining their activities and the funds they have raised:

Dear Eric

Thank you for the presentations yesterday. They were enjoyed by both students and staff. You had asked me to follow up with an email about how we raised the $924.46 this fall. ($18.75 to come from Terracycle at the end of December)
The student council held an I-Pod day where students, who had made a donation to Creation of Hope, could wear their I-Pods during non-instructional times. My Creation of Hope committee members ran “healthy” snack bars during the Hallowe’en dance and the two seasonal concerts and sold ice cream cups on pizza days. We are also involved in collecting foil drink bags, yogurt cups and zip lock bags to be sent to Terracycle. This company pays a charity of our choice (Creation of Hope) for the materials that they receive from us.

I also took a number of the foil drink bags and sewed them into reuseable “Kool Aid Jammer” bags. I took these bags with me to a number of craft sales that I participated in this fall and sold them for $9.99 each with all proceeds going to Creation of Hope. We also sold these bags at the school’s seasonal concerts. One of the shop owners in the Courtyard complex in Pickering Village had made a display with some of these bags and is also selling them for us. In total we have sold about 20 bags so far!

Barb Kettle

This is a letter from our friends at Lasalle Public School, in Lasalle Ontario, to Elijah who runs Exodus Children’s Home in Kenya.  While they are a separate entity we work with them to provide rent, supplement their food supplies for the children and offer additional support.

Dear Elijah and the children of Exodus House,

 Merry Christmas and a happy new year! We are writing to tell you that Mrs. Laing’s “Laing Gang” (her class in the morning) sold over 40 scarves and earned $230 dollars for you!!!! We are sending the money to Eric, and he will ask Ruth to buy you food with the money! Hooray!!!!

 The scarves were sold to teachers, students, the principal, vice-principal and some parents! Our friend, Mrs. Trappitt, made them for us to sell to you. She’s been sick lately, and we are hoping you can keep her in your prayers. Her full name is Laura Trappitt. Mrs. Martin is going to send a picture of us with her, with Mrs. Laing, from today, so you can see us!

 Merry Christmas again!

 From Mrs. Laing’s class (The Laing Gang!)

Glendale Public School, St. Catharine’s Ontario

Ryan Rumsby has changed schools but not his commitment to the program.  Last month we reported on his annual campaign with his students to raise money for the program by raking leaves in the community (pictures in the November update).  They raised $772.55 which will be put toward our next big water project in the spring.

In addition to personally sponsoring a child, his students also sponsor a child and make monthly donations.

Jack Hulland Elementary School, Whitehorse, North West Territories

Here’s a letter from some of our supporters at Jack Hulland School:

To the Creation of Hope:

I hope this letter finds you well.

We are a grade four class in Northern Canada (Yukon territory).  There are twenty students in my class, all age 9.  Thirteen are girls, and seven are boys.  As part of our world culture and geography my class has fundraised, by selling coffee from a local fair trade roaster.

One of the teachers at my school, Sara Tillet, heard about our fundraising and suggested we help support your orphanage.  We eagerly accepted.  My students raised $530.00, which we have enclosed for you.

My class was very excited to see pictures of your home in Kenya, and would enjoy hearing any stories or tales you would like to share with us.  In conclusion, my class sent these messages;

-          If anyone is sick we hope you are better soon

-          They admired your strength in a tough situation

-          They were happy to do the fundraising and hope our contribution helps

Peace is with you.  I apologize – I don’t know if you celebrate Christmas where you are, but it’s our holiday season.

 Sharon Wilson

Grade 4 teacher

Jack Hulland Elementary School

December 14, 2011

You will see in the January update that we’ve already put this money to use in supporting the needs of Rolling Hills Residence.

Brookside Secondary School, Cobourg  Ontario

$146.30 was donated by Brookside, under the direction of Maryanne Watson to purchase the following items; 10 saplings, 3 chickens, 2 tool sets, 2 goats.

Corporate Involvement

Our program has received incredible support from the people on the ground in Kenya.  It is such affirmation when the people there not only see the benefits of what’s happening but feel ownership and then make their own contributions.

Aviation & General Security Consultants (AGSC) is one of the leading companies in the world in providing security for large scale installations such as ports and airports.  They have also shown that they are world experts in helping.  Employees of this company have made trips up to Kikima four times in the last year, bringing with them food, clothing, blankets and boundless energy.  Their donations in this year have exceeded 80,000 Kenyan Shillings.  What they also bring along with their donations is a willingness to meet with the children, provide encouragement, and help our children see more Kenyan role models for education, success and compassion.  Great thanks to AGSC!

Individual Donations

Deborah and Jordan Kerbel made a holiday donation,

Sharon Jennings made a holiday donation – the children have such fond memories of her visit

Koko and Rob Saar gave a donation in lieu of gifts for the godparents of their children

Lucy Falcone and her sister provided a donation

Kelly, Rodney and Morgan paid for a wish list for Safari Peter.

Ieva Butkevics made a donation (see ‘thank you’ picture above)

Karen Danderfer made a donation (see ‘thank you’ picture above)

Robert Ford’s donation was both in honor of Sharon Freeman and also from his generosity.  You’ll see the thank you sign in the January update.

Sally Briggs made a generous donation and you’ll see the thank you sign in the January update

Shelley and Lucio Scodellaro made a donation.

Henry, Ryan, Lindsay and Matthew Krahn made a donation to support a number of wishlists – they will receive pictures in the coming months to show where the money went.

Sharon Freeman in Burnaby BC, wrote: “ I’ve enclosed a cheque for Christmas presents for the following people:

Ila and Jim Appleby, the Brunato family, Karen  Danderfer, Angela and Nick Dasovic, Rae Figursky, Linda and Bob Ford, Jody Freeman, Rob Freeman, The Gambron Family, Janet Goodman, Mark Harding, Pam and John Hossack, Patti Jukes, Danica Kanjer, Vesna and Slav Kanjer, Heather Mackay, Christine and Marjan Markota, Janja and Zvonko Markota, Monica and Tom Markota, Kath Mathisen, Jeff Peters, Tanya Porter, Giannina Rakic, Marina and Ivo Steko, and me…

Have a wonderful Christmas season and the happiest of times in 2012.”

New Sponsors

We have seven new sponsors!

1. Brigitte has sponsored Mutuku Mueni

2. Elizabeth Lawrence has sponsored Kelvin Muendo

3. Koki Muli has sponsored Safari Peter and Mutuku Mutuli

4. Marjorie Clerke has sponsored Faith Nzilani Ndinda

5. Craig Livingston has sponsored Victoria Mueni

6. Cecilia Mbithe has sponsored Kilonzo Mutuku

7. Audrey Hamilton has sponsored Edwin Safari

We hope that you have all enjoyed a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday season and we look forward to sharing with you further developments and successes as our support to the Creation of Hope program continues in 2012.  This year promises to be an exciting one complete with a group visit from some Canadian sponsors to Kenya!