Special Stops before leaving Uganda

By Naomi Corera, April 30, 2025

Fr. Seamus and Mr. Evan Chopp visit Christopher, a Seminarian at the Gaba Seminary

And, Fr. Seamus had the privilege and honor of Celebrating Holy Mass at the Altar of the Ugandan Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo, Uganda.

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Exploring St. Francis Xavier Classrooms

By Naomi Corera, April 26, 2025

Fr. Seamus and Mr. Evan Chopp checked out the St. Francis Xavier classrooms… peeking out the window…

And exploring inside the classrooms, as well.

Of course, they came bearing gifts. A pencil and a pen. An Easter egg with a little PEEP inside. They had never seen that before and had never tasted a PEEP before. They really enjoyed them. And if you listen to the video, you will hear whistling, too!

Yum, Yum, delicious!

The children had SO MUCH FUN!

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Breaking Ground

By Naomi Corera,

Fr. Seamus and Mr. Evan Chopp helped break ground for the new classroom at St. Francis Xavier School.

And of course, singing and dancing followed!

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Fr. Seamus and Mr. Evan Chopp visit Good Shepherd Nursery School

By Naomi Corera, April 25, 2025

Children singing a warm welcome to Fr. Seamus and Mr. Evan Chopp.

Children sing and motion ALLELUIA!

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Running with the Children

By Naomi Corera,

Fr. Seamus and Mr. Evan Chopp were wonderful guests. The children loved singing and playing with them.

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Water Tank for the Community

By Naomi Corera,

Fr. Moses’ community was struggling for water. In gratitude for hosting our American guests, Children Waiting Everywhere presented the Community with a water tank.

Of course, our American guests, helped in the delivery of the tank. Thank you, Fr. Seamus and Mr. Evan Chopp.

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Where Fathers Gather

By Naomi Corera, April 24, 2025

… we find Naomi who is responsible for coordinating their entire visit…

Here, she is with Fr. Tad, Mr. Evan Chopp, Bishop Robert Muhairwa, Fr. Seamus and Fr. Moses [who hosted our American guests].

Fr. Jude, Fr. Tad, Mr. Evan Chopp, Bishop Robert Muhairwa, Fr. Seamus and Fr. Moses pose for a group picture!

Mr. Evan Chopp, Bishop Robert Muhairwa and Fr. Seamus

And before they left Uganda, they were presented with a gift from the Fort Portal Diocese.

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Cutting Wood and Painting

By Naomi Corera, April 23, 2025

Fr. Seamus and Mr. Evan Chopp put their muscles to the test is many ways. First, they helped cut wood.

And then, they painted the newly plastered classroom at St. Francis Xavier School. Nice work!

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Stations of the Cross Procession

By Naomi Corera, April 15, 2025

Children at Good Shepherd Nursery School sing as they participate in the Stations of the Cross.

Then, they sing “Were You There ..”

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Enjoying Michigan Apples

By Naomi Corera, April 12, 2025

The children enjoy something they never tasted before, the sweet taste of Michigan Apples.

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Hats for the Children

By Naomi Corera, April 4, 2025

Here the children display their newly gifted hats that the ladies at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Saline, Michigan have knitted for the children. The children love their hats because it helps keep their heads warm this time of year… with their shaved heads they are truly, a wonderful gift and the children are so grateful!

“Thank you” ladies at St. Andrew’s Prayer Shawl Ministry.

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St. Sebastian is Back!

By Naomi Corera, February 2, 2025

St. Sebastian celebrated its wonderful reopening after many years of reconstruction – including the final touch of beautifully hand-carved wooden doors and stained glass windows!

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Candlemas Day Celebration

By Naomi Corera,

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Michigan Sweet Potatoes!

By Naomi Corera, January 10, 2025

In Uganda, the sweet potatoes are white inside… and I wanted to show how my friends in Uganda how they are different in Michigan – a rich, orangish carrot color inside. Here is their evolution from ‘rooting’ to harvest time and sharing their new vines and shoots with others so they too can plant in their gardens…

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Cooking with the Youth

By Naomi Corera, January 9, 2025

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Sri Lanka visit

By Naomi Corera, January 6, 2025

First Day of School in Sri Lanka
January 6, 2025

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St. Francis of Assisi in Ann Arbor, Michigan has become a great sponsor to Children Waiting Everywhere.

By Naomi Corera, December 27, 2024

When I visited the sixth grade class of Mr. Patrick Laughlin at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School in Ann Arbor, Michigan, I knew they were special – the children, their parents, teachers and their pastor, Fr. Seamus Kettner. I believe the children felt the need of the children we help in so many ways and they got to work!

Together, in a very short period of time they have rallied in support with 30+ projects from selling pumpkins to organizing the 1st Annual Turkey Bowl between four area schools and raised enough money to fund THREE MORE WATER TANKS!

Thank you Mr. Laughlin and Ms. Katherine for igniting a fire in the hearts of the children at St. Francis and beyond!

I am so very grateful for all your hard work and prayers. May God Bless you all!

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Christmas Shepherds

By Naomi Corera, December 24, 2024

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Good Shepherd Nursery School in Uganda

By Naomi Corera, December 8, 2024

Our beautiful alter to celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception

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St. Michael’s Primary School

By Naomi Corera, November 24, 2024

St. Michael’s Primary School has over 900 students, with about 105 students per class. They were in great need for water if you can only imagine. Children Waiting Everywhere brought two water tanks to the school where they were very grateful to receive the gift of water.

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St. Paul’s Vocation School

By Naomi Corera,

New St. Paul Vocational School Students are welcomed by Naomi. These children were vulnerable Congo refugees.

But now, Children Waiting Everywhere is sponsoring them thanks to your generous donations.

These children are safe now and will receive an education and training to become self-supporting and earn a living. Thank you!

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St. Francis Xavier School in Uganda Partners with St. Francis of Assisi School in Ann Arbor, Michigan

By Naomi Corera, November 23, 2024

Part TWO of The Story…

Fr. Seamus Kettner and Mr. Evan Chopp from St. Francis of the Assisi Church and School in Ann Arbor, Michigan have answered our prayers. And, with God, all things are possible!

These students are so happy Fr. Seamus and Mr. Chopp are coming. This is the classroom that will be plastered and painted.

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Water Tanks for THREE MORE Schools!

By Naomi Corera,

Children from St. Michael Primary School, St. John Primary School, and St. Francis Xavier Primary School and came to celebrate and express their gratitude for the new water tanks!

Here, the girls at St. Michael’s Primary School are singing and dancing for joy – they’re so happy to have a water tank at their school with 906 students, an average of 105 students in each classroom! Oh MY! But I noticed one tank is insufficient!
The children and teachers at St. John’s Primary School received their water tank and express their gratitude! “Thank you!”

St. Francis Xavier Primary School is a small school with 150 students. Enrollment is down due to the structure. We will have cement and other improvements to help with the mud and the structure and expect enrollment will increase once completed.

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St. Francis Xavier School in Uganda Partners with St. Francis of Assisi School in Ann Arbor, Michigan

By Naomi Corera, November 22, 2024

Part One of The Story…

“With God All Things Are Possible!”

St. Francis Xavier School is in dire need of repair and improvements as you can see from these photos and videos. There is mud around the classrooms after the rains, the roof needs repair, and the walls with obvious gaps need to be plastered and painted.

These are the BEFORE pictures/videos. Please stay tuned for the AFTER pictures/videos in Part Two of The Story..

The children are so excited to receive a water tank for their school!

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Little Servants of the Sacred Heart

By Naomi Corera, November 2, 2024

We welcome into the Little Servants of the Sacred Heart Community Sr. Macleans, “WELCOME!”

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Martyrs Parish receives Monstrance

By Naomi Corera, November 1, 2024

Children Waiting Everywhere donated a beautiful Monstrance to a new church in Uganda – Martyrs Parish thanks to the generosity of CWE supporters!

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Welcome to Our Community

By Naomi Corera,

Fr. and I welcome to Sr. Mackleans to our community.

The Congregation of the Little Servants of the Sacred Heart look on as Sr. Mackleans is welcomed. What a wonderful addition!

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St. Mary Minor Seminary Students

By Naomi Corera, October 6, 2024

Say “HELLO” to our new seminarian students, sponsored by Children Waiting Everywhere, so they may continue their education and discernment.

Please keep Michael and Felix, then Jude and John in your prayers.

We wish them well in their studies. May God Bless them.

And with a grateful heart, we thank you for supporting Children Waiting Everywhere, because it is your generosity that makes this sponsorship possible. Thank you.

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SRI LANKA update

By Naomi Corera, August 28, 2024

In August I visited the Blessed Virgin Nursery School.

Here are a few pictures of the boys and girls who were so happy to see me once again.

Handwork by Blessed Virgin School…

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The Operating Theatre

By Naomi Corera, August 16, 2024

All construction here in Uganda is done by hand. Beginning with preparing the base for the foundation. which requires a crew of workers to move the dirt, bucket by bucket …

But first, the land began being cleared by hand and by many in October 2023.
The corner foundation is laid.
Children anxiously await what is to come, as they step inside one of the “rooms.”
Naomi explains the floorplan layout in this video.

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Fun with Sunglasses

By Naomi Corera, August 3, 2024

Naomi giving the children sunglasses she brought back with her from the States.

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First Communion in Uganda

By Naomi Corera,

First Communion was in November, 2023.

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Sri Lanka and the Blessed Virgin Nursery School

By Naomi Corera,

  • The Boys Class
The girls class.
Children enjoying the treat I brought them.
The children enjoy time outside.

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Children at Church

By Naomi Corera,

The children love their Rosaries.
The Rosaries are handmade by the IHM Hands of Mary Rosary Makers in Lansing, Michigan.
Here, I am [centered] for a group picture on a recent visit to my friends in Lansing.

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Dancing for Joy for the gift of water!

By Naomi Corera,

You may need to turn your head as the water tank is ‘righted’ – then, scroll down to the next video to see the response of the children and the village!

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You are my Sunshine!

By Naomi Corera,

Naomi and the children singing together a new song they learned. How happy and grateful they are – a song of joy!

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Naomi leading the Children as they pray the prayer Jesus taught us …

By Naomi Corera,

Our Father, who art in heaven…

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New Printer for the Ultra-Sound Lab

By Naomi Corera,

“Thank you, Kerry” for your generosity. Now, our new printer will add in the care of expectant mothers.

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St. Paul’s Vocational School Fundraiser Initiative

By Naomi Corera,

St Paul’s Vocational School Fundraiser Initiative

Testimony by Joseph Murphy

In the summer of 2023, my friend Emily and I had the privilege of volunteering in Uganda, specifically in a small village named Kyakatara, alongside Naomi Corera and her non-profit organization, Children Waiting Everywhere.

Kyakatara, situated in western Uganda near Fort Portal, is surrounded by picturesque tea plantations, where many locals work tirelessly. While our initial goal was to fundraise for a water tank and rainwater collection system for a small Catholic school, it soon became apparent that the community’s needs extended beyond the necessity for clean water. The lack of access to quality education and skills development emerged as a pressing concern.

What struck me most about the people of Kyakatara was their profound simplicity, genuine joy, and unwavering hospitality despite their poverty. We danced, laughed, shared stories, and even played soccer with them.  We were able to create bonds that transcend cultural and geographical barriers.

However, amid the warmth and laughter, the distressing circumstances faced by many, especially the children, could not be ignored. Unfortunately, a considerable number of children drop out of school due to financial constraints or lack of parental support. More than 4 out of 10 Ugandan students dropout of school at primary level, (before the age of 13), and 3 out of 10 of those who start high school do not graduate[1]. This dire situation often pushes children towards harmful behaviors and activities, oftentimes leading to early pregnancies and drug abuse perpetuating a cycle of poverty and despair.

During our stay, we were graciously hosted by Father Jude, a remarkable priest and community leader. Father Jude shared his vision of empowering Ugandan youth to break free from the cycle of adversity through education and skills development. Central to this vision is the revival of Saint Paul’s Vocational School in Kyakatara, which is currently not active due to financial constraints.

Appeal:

To support Father Jude’s vision and uplift the youth of Uganda, we are embarking on a fundraising initiative through Children Waiting Everywhere. Donations will directly contribute to repairing the school, providing essential tools and resources, ensuring teacher salaries, and offering scholarships to disadvantaged students. Children waiting everywhere is 100% volunteer based which means 100% of your contributions will go towards this project.

Saint Paul’s Vocational School aims to equip students with practical skills in carpentry, metal fabrication, tailoring, knitting, and hairdressing, fostering self-sufficiency and empowerment. This will be achieved through 1-to-2-year programs in the focus that each child decides to pursue. Children who dropout in Primary School/ High School, who are the most likely to end up on the streets in dire situations, will be the primary target for this school. Father Jude and everyone involved are hoping to have at least 50 students enrolled at the start of the school year in January of 2025. With your generous contributions, we aspire to see this school flourish and become a beacon of hope for the youth of Kyakatara and beyond.

Please consider donating to this worthy cause and changing the lives of less fortunate youth in Uganda. See below for donation instructions and a brief list of some initial costs that your donations will go towards.

Initial Project Costs breakdown

Category Cost
Teacher Salaries 5 teachers total with monthly salaries of $55 each = $275 per month
Equipment Repairs $1,500 to repair existing sewing and wood working machinery
Construction for 2 Additional Classrooms $5,000

Instructions on making donations:

Checks

  1. Please write checks to: “Children Waiting Everywhere”
  2. In the memo section write: “St Paul’s Vocational School”
  3. Mail to: 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Dr. Ann Arbor MI 48105 Online Donations
  4. Visit: https://www.childrenwaitingeverywhere.org/support/
  5. Click: “Make a gift today”
  6. Use PayPal to donate your desired amount and make sure to write “St. Paul’s Vocational School” in the Purpose section.

“An intervention from people of good and generous hearts will change the lives of many young people in Kyakatara village and the surrounding villages, restoring hope to the hopeless.” – Father Jude

Thank you, and may God bless your generosity,

Joseph Murphy

(978)-799-6338

joemurphy347@gmail.com

naomicwe@gmail.com

[1] Nalunkuuma, Joviah. “Empowering Uganda’s Youth through Education.” Nilepost News, August 1, 2023. https://nilepost.co.ug/school-dropout-rates/166790/empowering-ugandas-youth-through-education#:~:text =School%20dropout%20rates%20in%20Uganda,out%20before%20completing%20their%20education.

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Time with the Children

By Naomi Corera, January 7, 2024

The children in their library and little Elijah enjoying the BLOCKS given by Bridget from Ann Arbor, Michigan. Thank you!

Children enjoying their library books.
Children teaming up to read books together.
Children enjoying their LIBRARY BOOKS … shopped all the way from Ann Arbor, Michigan.

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Home of Hope

By Naomi Corera,

Home of Hope Children … for whom we have built the Good Shepherd Nursery School, sing “We are happy to today!”

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Water, Water! For St. Joseph the Worker Primary School

By Naomi Corera,

St. Joseph the Worker Primary School located in the village of Gweri.

We are So GRATEFUL for the gift of Water! May God Bless all those who help this become a reality with your prayers and financial donations.

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The Epiphany of the Lord

By Naomi Corera,

Here are Andrew, John Paul and Joel dressed as the three Magi of the East, as they prepare for bringing gifts to the Baby Jesus on Sunday, January 6, 2024 to celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord.

And now, joining the 3 Magi, is Benedict, in the role of King Herod.

Christopher is holding the Bethlehem Star.
The children have loved going from church to church reenacting the Christmas Story and now the Epiphany of the Lord.

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We Wish You A Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year and My Note of Gratitude to You!

By Naomi Corera, December 27, 2023

I am so grateful to all those who have supported Children Waiting Everywhere these past 23 years and counting! It has been a blessing to help the children, along with their families and including the elderly.

Together, we have done the work Jesus taught us to do including to feed the hungry and clothe the naked.

We have brought life giving water to so many villages and I continue to find the most in need, the poorest and the forgotten.

We have brought education and training to those who otherwise would not have it. Many have gone on to be self-sustaining and earn a living and in their careers.

We have brought the Catholic Faith to so many.

We have built schools and churches.

We have helped with medical care for the poor children who could not afford it.

God Bless each and every one of you and your families as I continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus through your support of continued prayers and financial support.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, 2024!

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Christmas with the Children

By Naomi Corera,

  • All the children preparing for Christmas and the birth of Our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

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Children enjoying the Grasshoppers!

By Naomi Corera, December 7, 2023

Travel to Uganda along with me as the children enjoy a delicious snack! Yum! Yum!

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St. Joseph the Worker Primary School

By Naomi Corera, November 30, 2023

  • Life-gving-water!
  • children enjoying the water!

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St. Adolf Receiving their Water Tank

By Naomi Corera, November 27, 2023

  • The children inspecting their new water tank!
  • “Thank you” to all the donors who generously support Children Waiting Everywhere!

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First Communion Day

By Naomi Corera, November 20, 2023

Lovely young ladies on their First Holy Communion, 7 November 2023

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Good Shepherd Nursery “roofing in-progress”

By Naomi Corera, November 12, 2023

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Our New Good Shepherd Nursery School Becoming a Reality!

By Naomi Corera,

  • Breaking Ground for the new Good Shepherd Nursery School
  • The foundation being laid.
  • The walls go up.
  • More work to do…
  • Many bricks to be laid yet.
  • The children anticipating their new school.

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Good Shepherd Checkpoint!

By Naomi Corera, November 11, 2023

11 November 2023

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The New Ambassador

By Naomi Corera, October 25, 2023

Naomi with the new Ambassador, Mr. William Popp

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A Day at Naomi’s School…

By Naomi Corera, October 14, 2023

  • Children having lunch
  • more children having lunch…
  • Children holding up their Rosaries
  • Children inside the classroom
  • More children inside the classroom
  • Children with their special guests…
  • Teachers and children
  • Teachers and children
  • a full classroom…
  • Teachers and students in front of Good Shepherd School

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Children with Balloons!

By Naomi Corera,

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Your generous donations continue to bring Life-Giving Water to so many children and their families. Thank you.

By Naomi Corera,

  • Life-Giving Water!

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Our Christmas Choir and Shepherds were the only children to perform before the Bishop

By Naomi Corera, December 27, 2022

The children were outstanding and performed beautifully! I am so very proud of them and if you had seen them – you would be too, ! They had never heard Christmas carols before and now they know the words and how to sing them wonderfully.
Thanks to your very generous donations, the very poorest of the children were outfitted in new shoes and beautiful costumes for their performance. All the children and their families, and I, want to thank you so very much. May God Bless you and keep you and be generous to you in the new year!
With love and gratitude beyond words….
Naomi

  • Shepherds and choir children posing for me!
The choir waiting to go before the Bishop and perform.
Some of our beautiful choir girls waiting for the pageant to begin.
Our handsome boys and shepherds waiting for the pageant to begin.
A snapshot of the group this Christmas, 2022.
More of our beautiful angels, choir members, and shepherds.
“MERRY CHRISTMAS!”

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Water Tanks for Two Schools

By Naomi Corera, November 25, 2022

On a recent visit to two nearby schools [both several hours away] I learned there were over 900 children who had very limited water access. They also sleep in 3-bed high bunk beds in very crowded rooms.

And so, Children Waiting Everywhere began the process of getting all these children needed water, a true gift.

We ordered three [3] 10,000 liter tanks!

  • EVERYTHING is done by hand. The manual labor began.
  • Tanks arrive at the school, which will be named in honor of generous donations made by St. John the Evangelist, Jackson, Michigan, USA

And the finished project!

This is so wonderful! “Thank you,” Father!

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The New Ultra-Sound Machine in Action!

By Naomi Corera, October 5, 2022

The new ultra-sound machine has arrived after many delays!

“Thank you” to all the supporters of Children Waiting Everywhere who have made this possible

– You know who you are!

  • Bishop Robert blesses the new ultra-sound machine.

  • Mothers waiting in line for a scan of their unborn babies.

God Bless you all.

With much love and gratitude, Naomi.

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Naomi’s Ride!

By Naomi Corera, September 2, 2022

While visiting Sri Lanka and the Sisters at the Convent which is over 100 years old and needs renovations including a new roof and who care for the orphans there… had on my TO-DO list — to video me riding an elephant! The elephants in Sri Lanka are not dangerous, and I wanted to show the children of Uganda how it can be. Because, the elephants in Uganda are very dangerous!

And, I made it through the ride just fine and continued to meet with key people and work towards future planning here in Sri Lanka.

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The Children of Sri Lanka

By Naomi Corera, September 1, 2022

The children’s favorite pastime, playing with homemade kites!
The children in action!

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Sri Lanka Children with Rosaries from Lansing Rosary Makers

By Naomi Corera, August 30, 2022

The Lansing Rosary Makers are a group from Lansing, Michigan who have faithfully made Rosaries and given them to Children Waiting Everywhere over the years. Many thanks to all those who labor so lovingly for the children.

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Another Water Well is Dug!

By Naomi Corera, August 16, 2022

This is the beginning of a new well – there is a man 70 feet down and still digging and putting dirt in a bucket and we are cranking it up to empty it!
Finally, at 120 feet down, we have water! Precious life-giving water! Praise God!

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Blessing of the New Lab

By Naomi Corera, July 25, 2022

Thanks to generous donors a new ultrasound machine has been purchased, delivered and is now ready to use for expectant mothers.

A special blessing took place to give to grace those who need prenatal care. Thank you!

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Gingerbread Invasion???

By Naomi Corera, July 12, 2022

The children had heard the story of the Gingerbread Boy many times from the book in the library, and they loved the story!

Upon my return in June, I brought the children dozens of gingerbread cookies for them to decorate. The cookies traveled well, the children had fun decorating them and more fun eating them!

“Thank you” to my friends back in Ann Arbor who worked so hard to bake the cookies. Yum! Yum!

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Servants of the Sacred Heart Visit Us in Uganda

By Naomi Corera, March 23, 2022

The Servants of the Sacred Heart Sisters visited us in March of 2022. It was a lovely time!
  • Work being done … for the Sisters —
  • — who will soon start a community here.

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Stations of the Cross

By Naomi Corera,

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Standing in line to get water from the Swamp

By Naomi Corera, February 16, 2022

Water is a never-ending pursuit to the poor people of Uganda. Through the generous donations to Children Waiting Everywhere over the years, together, we have dug cisterns and wells and helped so many people. Water is key to life, and good water is key to a healthier life. Thank you ever-so-much for your continued support. We cannot dig enough wells or build enough cisterns to provide for all those in need. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

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Our Smart Children’s Choir

By Naomi Corera, January 2, 2022

The children had never heard Christmas carols before let alone sing them. Then you have me, with my meager voice, who taught them all the traditional Christmas carols. They LOVED it! And so did the nearby village, where the Priest offered a goat to the winner of a friendly competition between the children’s choir and the adult choir! It didn’t matter who won, because the meal was shared with all. Merry Christmas!

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Christmas Day with the Children and the Elderly

By Naomi Corera, December 25, 2021

The children with the Manger scene.

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“The Lowly Shepherds hastened to Bethlehem to see the Newborn King!”

By Naomi Corera, December 23, 2021

Dear FRIENDS,

You are always in my thoughts and prayers… But especially at Christmas time I give thanks for helping me to bring the Light and Hope of Baby Jesus to the Children, the Youth, and the Elderly.

Thank you ever so much!

Still no corona here, but we I am praying for you and your family all to be safe this Christmas.

God bless you.

Maybe next year we shall meet. God willing.

Naomi

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The Children’s Library

By Naomi Corera, December 21, 2021

I began collecting books years ago and knew that one day the children would see all the beautiful stories and pictures lovingly I brought to share with them.

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Good Shepherd Garden

By Naomi Corera, December 18, 2021

Children and Ms. Naomi working in the garden.

The students admiring their garden!
planting cabbage seedlings
planting more …
hard work by all.

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The Season of Advent is here!

By Naomi Corera, November 20, 2021

I have my advent wreath… almost ready…

and the crown for Christ the King Sunday, November 28th, 2021!

Two mothers receiving their gifts for having helped the children make chappatis!

Youth helping to clean our St. Peter’s chapel for Christ the King! With refreshments to follow afterwards! Even Agnes, our kindergartner, helping to get the water from the tank! Our church built by YOU! generous Americans! Thank you!

Getting ready for our elderly to serve on Christmas Day!

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Joyful and Grateful!

By Naomi Corera, November 12, 2021

JOYFUL and GRATEFUL to God for the 21 years of continuous trust you have had in me to help evangelize and care for God’s children: the elderly, youth, and young children.

Dear Friends,                                                                                November 2021

I give thanks for the many gifts received from you. One hundred percent of your generous contributions are being used to help during the effects of this Coronavirus pandemic. In Uganda, it is the only country in the world where the schools are still on lockdown even though the general 102-day lockdown has been lifted. This has caused much hardship to the daily wage earner and CWE came to the rescue then and remains an ongoing and immense help to the elderly, the youth, and the children.

Here are some of the stories…

  • .  I was able to “homeschool” the children where they learned about the Holy vessels used at Mass.
  • Sister Agnes taught the children how to make Rosaries when they were not working around the compound harvesting our bounty and sharing it with the elderly.
  • Small groups secretly gathered to pray the Rosary.

In addition:
“Water for Life” for the Kichwamba Village of 400 people!

The only life they knew was to walk to and from
the river to get their water.

Now, thanks to generous donations —
A new and beautiful cistern, and a new way of life for a grateful village!
Dear little six year-old and orphan, Serafina, who has a cancerous eye tumor. She now has a date with the eye surgeon to remove the tumor. Preliminary examination is very hopeful, as her retina is good and she can see with that eye! Thank you for your donations which paid for her transportation and medical fees for her care! Please keep Serafina in your prayers.
Here I am with ten year-old Natasha-We wait and wait and wait for the doctors to decide on how to manage her cancerous tumors… as they keep appearing so rapidly – her case is very complicated. Thank you for your generous donations which provided transportation and money to pay for her medical care thus far. Please keep Natasha in your prayers.
Little Felix had a skin disease caused by worms [which is common here] and was treated with strong medication; he is now much better and will need to be watched because the worms surrounded his kidneys. Please keep Felix in your prayers.

My most satisfying work has been working with the youth and children teaching them Catechism and evangelizing.

We are already practicing our Christmas carols and Christmas play and preparing to compete with the adult choir. The winning choir will receive a goat promised by the parish Priest. It will be shared and enjoyed by the elderly, the youth, and the children on Christmas Day! My Christmas Day will be at home cooking a big meal with small gifts for the little children and the elderly who will have a completely different Christmas because of you!

An exciting new mission for me is taking the teachings of the Catholic faith and traditions to the schools and the teachers who are in lockdown as they are excited and happy to learn about new ways to instruct the children!

I send my deepest gratitude to each of you who has given Children Waiting Everywhere the support of your prayers and generous donations. Remember, I am the “boots on the ground!”

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Our Coffee Project has begun!

By Naomi Corera, November 5, 2021

I hope these pictures tell the story! So many people came out in early November to help clear the land and plant the coffee plants.

Even the children know hard work!

The goal is to become more independent and provide for their families.




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All Saints Day!

By Naomi Corera, November 1, 2021

The Sisters and I dressed up in costume of our favorite saints to celebrate All Saints Day!

My Collage of Saints!

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Meet Solar Power Apprentice – Stephen.

By Naomi Corera, September 24, 2021

This is orphan Stephen… he cried for CWE to help him for help to complete his high school studies. Now, CWE, has put him through vocational training for solar power. Here he is with his new bicycle, helmet, boots, meter, and coat. All purchased with your funds – donations to Children Waiting Everywhere. He is doing his apprentice work – no pay, but lots of experience. Stephen, we are so proud of you … for your punctuality and good work ethics!! Go Power yourself

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“Good Shepherd” Tailoring Startup

By Naomi Corera,

Veronica is a very talented young woman who completed the skills program sponsored by Children Waiting Everywhere. She recently journeyed back to Kenya to open a new tailoring shop called “Good Shepherd Tailoring.” We wish the best to Veronica and her success! May God bless her abundantly.

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Who’s Making Rosaries Now?

By Naomi Corera, August 10, 2021

Naomi, Sr. Agnes, and Lucy – all learning and making Rosaries!

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Keeping Little Ones Occupied

By Naomi Corera,

Here, the Little Ones are coloring.
And here, they are playing with the cars rolling down the ramp!

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Water Supply for 400

By Naomi Corera,

  • A mother and her son are so very grateful for this water!

“Thank you, St. Andrew Parish in Saline, Michigan. Precious water is flowing! The water project is now completed with the help of God and the generous donation from St. Andrew. Come visit!

This is PHASE ONE of a brand new cistern being built with donations from St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Saline, Michigan. Wow wee!

What you see here is the beginning of a wonderful gift. The men are focusing on their work as you can see…. and if you watch closely, there appears to be a little one looking on… can you see his feet dangling?

This water storage project will provide water to over 400 people and will avoid the need to continuously walk to gather water and carry it back to their home for daily use. What a wonderful gift it will be!

The snapshot below shows how just one mother and child gather their daily water needs. It is both very time consuming and labor-intensive, would you agree?

Of course, as the project progresses, updates will be posted.

May God Bless both the donors and the recipients.

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Our Nightwatchman

By Naomi Corera,

Stephen, the Nightwatchman, keeping watch over us – in his new night watchman’s place … as he does his night duty … before this, he did not have a decent place. Now, he is so happy to be indoors as he keeps watch over us during the night.

God Bless his new abode.

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Our Youth Group keeping busy.

By Naomi Corera,

Lucy and Judy from our Youth Group shown here wearing their reward
for being punctual for the meetings — Both showing off their hats!
Students making delicious, warm and tasty CHAPPATI!
Everyone is helping with the preparation.
Now we are ready to sell the fresh CHAPPATI.
SUPPORT OUR YOUTH

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Schools and Churches closed for 102 days! We are in God’s hands.

By Naomi Corera,

Until early June, Uganda had been spared the terrible COVID-19 pandemic. However, on June 6th the President of Uganda spoke and CLOSED all schools and churches for 42 days! The Indian variant of the Coronaviris had entered the country! A short while later, he extended the lockdown to another 60 days!

What this has meant for the people of Uganda is no one can work, no businesses, no transportation – only emergency vehicles. No crossing borders, only the driver within the district. The poor once again are suffering, only food can be sold, no other items. The problem is, no one can go to work… no crossing district borders… so they cannot earn a living to buy their food. They eat only what they grow. All are digging for their food.

God alone is our provider and protector… we place our trust in him.

-Naomi

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July 4, 2021 “Thank you!”

By Naomi Corera, July 3, 2021

Wishing you all a RED, WHITE AND BLUE and JOYFUL Fourth of July Celebration.

So Blessed we are!!!

THANK YOU to all my American Friends for all the support you have given to the African child. Your generosity is always remembered in my prayers.

Please stay well… vaccinated or not, keep away from crowds.

God Bless all the AMERICANS TODAY!

-Naomi

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Holy Spirit Graduation

By Naomi Corera, May 26, 2021

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Holy Spirit Graduation

By Naomi Corera,

April 17, 2021

The students at Holy Spirit patiently wait in anticipation to celebrate with family in song and dance!

  • The children are dancing to celebrate their joy!

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St. Andrew Update …

By Naomi Corera,

In early February of this year, Fr. Robert was transferred to St. Andrew Church where recent renovations were in the works.
  • Beautiful Alter

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Beans, beans, beans!

By Naomi Corera,

Here, the children are helping remove the beans from the pods.
They are used to doing this at home, but today they are helping at school.
Beans are the main staple in daily meals.

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Blessings onto the Holy Spirit School gate and the Holy Family Shrine.

By Naomi Corera,

December 2020

Father, blessing the Holy Spirit Shrine.

Father, blessing the Holy Spirit school gate.

Nicholas, artist and sculpture, standing proudly in front of his beautifully created work!

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Pentecost Sunday

By Naomi Corera, May 23, 2021

We celebrated the Feast of Pentecost and the children sang joyously “Come Holy Spirt!”

Pentecost Sunday

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A Christmas Message

By Naomi Corera, December 20, 2020

Hello Friends and Co/sponsors

As the year comes to an end of this tumultuous 2020 with so many fears…Our Mighty God, thankfully, has brought us to the end… For that CWE and I want to give thanks to YOU… for you only have just a small idea of the great Joy you have brought to so many children and families.

Your generous $$ have been always thoughtfully and wisely and most importantly frugally spent…often being the stimulus support for many families who depended on us.

Today as I write one of our students in grade 5 met with a very serious motorcycle accident and was rushed to the capital 5 hours away in an ambulance, for bleeding in the brain. Once again having the cash, CWE was able to help the widowed mother with her son.

HIGHLIGHTS. of what was achieved with your $$

* WATER TANKS …. before, there was no such thing as washing hands after the use of pit latrines

* for Holy Spirit School, Good Shepherd School, and for Teachers’ Quarters

* NEW MONSTRANCE

* NEW TOILETS. for Holy Spirit School

* NEW Individual desks and chairs to keep the social distance and not sitting together in crowded benches.

* NEW 4 HOUSES … QUARTERS FOR TEACHERS… who otherwise lived-in slum conditions… now have their own toilets and kitchen. The envy of others!

* ST. PAUL’S TECHNICAL SCHOOL FOR THE YOUTH…SALARIES FOR TEACHERS.

Students who are not able to pay school fees yet yearn to learn a trade.  Students built all the welding projects for the schools and teacher’s quarters.

* GATE AND FENCE FOR THE SISTERS OF THE SERVANTS OF MARY.

* GATE AND FENCE FOR HOLY SPIRIT SCHOOL.

* MAINTAINING FATHERLESS FAMILIES.

* GIVING EMPLOYMENT TO MANY WORKERS…During shutdown.

* SPONSORING 3 SEMINARIANS IN MAJOR SEMINARY IN ARUA DIOCESE AND FORT PORTAL DIOCESE.

* EVANGELIZING children and families during lockdown. Still ongoing.

* ST. JOSEPH’S MEN’S GROUP.

* RENOVATION OF A SMALL SECTION OF HEALTH FACILITY

* TRANSPORT FOR BROTHERS to minister to the elderly and shut ins… with a motor bike.

* COMPLETION of St. Joseph church

* CONSTRUCTION of Holy Family Shrine

       But most of all upgrading and uplifting the poor and needy who live in harsh conditions added on by the economic effects of corona living surrounded by other diseases. Corona has not been able to diminish them. We thank God for that. Sometimes I wonder why… why has God Blessed us so abundantly and others almost forgotten by Him. Then I pause and remember 

Mother Teresa’s words… ” The Poor Will Always Be with Us”  Poverty can never be eradicated completely. But as long as we have so much to give and share with them. We help to lighten their load and bring the LIGHT of Christ to them.

YOU AND CWE HAVE DONE JUST THAT!!  AND THATS THE BEST UNWRAPPED CHRISTMAS PRESENT TO ALL!  THAT’S THE GIFT OF JOY YOU HAVE RECEIVED FROM THEM TO YOU!!

Now smile and Joyfully CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF CHRIST!!

With lots of love, Remembering you all each day in my Rosary and intentions.

Naomi

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Teacher’s Quarters

By Naomi Corera, December 15, 2020

Our new teacher’s quarters in under construction. And, if you know me, you know the color of the doors have special meaning.

The YELLOW door represents Pope Paul VI – the first Pope to visit Uganda.
The GREEN door represents St. Joseph.
The BLUE door represents Mother Mary.

A worker hard at it for the long day.
You know everything is done by hand!
The workers are so talented and I am happy to have such good workers in every project we undertake.
The beautiful gate to the new teacher’s quarters.

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Advent in Uganda

By Naomi Corera,

My beautiful Advent candles.

ADVENT, a time of preparation…

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A heartfelt “thank you” to those who help me continue God’s work. Children Waiting Everywhere has recently helped two little girls in need.

By Naomi Corera, November 19, 2020

First we have little Praise. A beautiful little 3 year old who underwent a lifesaving surgery and who is now, a very spirited and happy little girl. Praise is expected to fully recover and have a good life because she is so young and able to adapt very well.

Next, we have Elizabeth, who was the youngest child of four. Her mother carried her everywhere because she was unable to walk. After speaking with the mother, I coordinated a trip to the city for doctors to evaluate Elizabeth’s condition. The doctors discovered there was no reason she should not be able to walk with physical therapy. We ordered a custom ‘high chair’ for her to have her stand in. Going forward therapists with the help of her mother and brothers and several times each day – will forcibly stretch her legs and heels down to the ground. As you can imagine, it is very painful – but Elizabeth herself is excited about her future and walking as other children do!

You can hear my voice encouraging the girls to PUSH the Ball!!!! WOWEE!!!

In this video, you can hear me encourage the girls to ‘PUSH THE BALL!’ Wowee!!!!

“Thank you” everyone who helps me to be the boots on the ground for Children Waiting Everywhere and share God’s love and mercy.

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    Welding Class

    By Naomi Corera, September 13, 2020

    Our Welding class has taken on an enormous project – to build a gate for the Mantelatta Sisters Servants of Mary of Sorrows whose Patroness is Our Lady of Sorrows! They have completed the task in time to celebrate Our Lady of Sorrows Feast Day on September 15th!

    Mission completed as the welding class proudly displays the new gate!

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    20 Year Anniversary!

    By Naomi Corera,

    “20th Anniversary Banner for Children Waiting Everywhere”
    Dear Friends,
    I wanted you to know that I am well and that 2020 is a VERY SPECIAL YEAR of Celebrations! 
    As you know, 20 years ago, on my 50th birthday, I traveled to Uganda.  My heart was drawn to the children here.  With the support of many friends, I started Children Waiting Everywhere.
    I am so JOYFUL and GRATEFUL to God for the 20 years of CWE Service to Children and my parents for the gift of my life and working with God’s children! Many grateful thanks for your continued support to our 100% volunteer foundation, Children Waiting Everywhere!
    Sadly, I will not be able to celebrate with family and friends due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  We keep those who have been affected by the virus in our prayers.  We are incredibly grateful there are not many deaths here in Uganda. 
    😊 Happily, 😊 I will be celebrating with the Mantelatta Sisters Servants of Mary of Sorrows whose Patroness is Our Lady of Sorrows.
    I am extremely excited to be celebrating on September 15th
     Our Lady of Sorrows Feast Day and my birthday, together!
     
      “Blow the Candles with me on the 15th!”

    “THANK YOU, THANK YOU for having partnered with us!”  … and MY GIFT to you is my daily ROSARY for you and your children.  Love to you all!
    Gratefully, Naomi Corera

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      St. Joseph Church Renovation

      By Naomi Corera,

      Our St. Joseph Church is now complete with renovations – just in time for the Year of St. Joseph.

      Our beautiful alter, hand-painted by a very talented local artist and sculptor, Nicholas.
      • Completed, front view
      • Nicholas, artist and sculptor

      A transformation from before all the painting and construction was done:

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      New Tailoring Shop for Jacqueline!

      By Naomi Corera, August 24, 2020

      Taking the sewing machine to our graduate JACQUELINE..to open her new Tailoring Shop… She is the sole breadwinner for her paralyzed mother and 4 younger siblings.

      Taking the sewing machine to our graduate JACQUELINE.
      Everyone moves by motorbike… even the sewing machine!
      We have rented a small room in a shopping center for her to open her tailoring shop.
      Rent is $8 a month.
      Through generous donors we bought her the machine and paid rent for 6 months.
      Thank you dear friends for making another SMILE and helping her feed her siblings!
      Jacqueline quietly says “thank you.”
      Jacqueline sets up shop with her newly delivered sewing machine.
      She is so very grateful – Thank you!

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      Keeping Youth Engaged

      By Naomi Corera,

      Keeping youth engaged in computer classes during lockdown and schools closed. Here the students are playing the role of teachers… to ensure that they have understood the lesson. All laptops from Ann Arbor, Michigan! Thank you!!

      Keeping Youth engaged in computer classes during lockdown with schools closed.

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      Food Distribution to Needy Children and Mothers

      By Naomi Corera, July 29, 2020

      In early July, 2020 the rains came pouring down upon families within the Diocese. Mudslides displaced the families who lived there and became in desperate need of food. After speaking with the Bishop, we organized a relief effort to bring families food to help with the hunger they were facing. Each food bag included maize flour, beans, soap, and a little bit of sugar as a treat and should feed a family for a whole month! Thanks to the generosity of Children Waiting Everywhere donors, the cost of $10 per bag was met.

      Much needed food bags filled with life saving staples were packed and readied for the 3 hour journey.
      Temporary housing the families now live in.
      Flood waters still affecting everyone!
      The Bishop crosses the standing water where a road once was.
      The Bishop and me handing out the much needed food bags to the children and their mothers. Thank you so much for your generosity to Children Waiting Everywhere!
      The children and their mothers wait for their names to be called and receive their food bag. If their name was not called, they did not receive a bag.

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      Pit Latrine Update

      By Naomi Corera, July 17, 2020

      The pit latrine has become a reality in early May, 2020 for the Good Shepherd Children’s Center thanks to your generous donations to Children Waiting Everywhere.

      Everything is dug by hand!
      The lorry arrived with the bricks
      Final touches to the pit latrines!
      5 stalls for the GIRLS!
      5 stalls for the BOYS!

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      Soup at Good Shepherd Montessori School

      By Naomi Corera, March 22, 2020

      Sad and disappointed that I couldn’t come to MI for my annual Lenten Soup Supper..I decided to make soup with our little ones at GOOD SHEPHERD CENTER. The parents donated the vegetables.. the children learned the English names sorted them..chopped and cut the carrots and potatoes and tomatoes… and put them in a large pot . We found large stones to hold the pot then found sticks to make the fire and boiled for an hour to make our delicious soup. What a wonderful experience it was for the children. Of course missed the Donation box!! The joy of  the children relishing and slurping the delicious soup was sufficient for me! 

      Naomi

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      Mary, Seat of Wisdom School

      By Naomi Corera,

      I am sending you photos of MARY SEAT OF WISDOM SCHOOL. Started by one of my sponsored students whose dream was to start his own school. He had built the wooden structures with his own hands and dug the pit latrine too. Eventhough there is an American US AID built school..the poor students flock to his school for CATHOLIC EDUCATION!! So now we can purchase a larger piece of land around 2 acres or so.. and get the cost for building at least 4 classrooms to begin.

      God is great!!

      Naomi

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      Bread and Soup 2020 cancelled, but please still support this Lent!

      By Naomi Corera, March 5, 2020

      Update: March 10, 2020

      Dear Friends,

      Greetings to all! I was looking forward to seeing you all again at the Lenten Suppers. The coronavirus epidemic has made me change plans and cancel my trip to the US for the Lenten Suppers . I know it is a good decision. 

      We depend on the funds from th Lenten Suppers to finance our schools and other empowering projects for the year. So if you so choose to send us a voluntary gift to support our children we would be very grateful to you. So sadly, CWE’s 20th anniversary event has to be cancelled. I know the Good Lord will provide as we continue to trust in HIM.

      I am sending some short clips for our very recent 2020 GOOD SHEPHERD CENTER opening and the water project. Otherwise sending all the projects would be too long. Lets all continue to pray for a solution and cure to this devastating virus.   God Bless you all , Naomi

      Children Waiting Everywhere
      24 Frank Lloyd Wright Dr. 
      Ann Arbor, MI 48105

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      Vocation skills training

      By Naomi Corera, November 15, 2019

      School break (“holidays”) have begun in Uganda, and vocation skills training are underway for the youth in tailoring, carpentry, welding, building, and basic computer knowledge. All of this is supported by Children Waiting Everywhere! THANK YOU FRIENDS!

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      Rosaries

      By Naomi Corera, November 1, 2019

      Students of Holy Spirit Primary School reciting the rosary. Thank you friends for the Mission Rosaries!

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      A message of gratitude

      By Naomi Corera, October 4, 2019

      We would like to pass along this message of gratitude!

      This is to express my sincere gratitude to CHILDREN WAITING EVERYWHERE for the support that they have always extended to DIVINE EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT SKILLS in achieving its objectives of empowering youth, especially orphans and school drop outs.
      In a special way, I would like to inform you that the Government of Uganda under the Directorate of Industrial Training has recognized the positive impact of DIVINE EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT SKILLS in providing vocational skills and training school drop outs. The Government has therefore promised to partner with DIVINE EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT SKILLS in Skilling the youths.

      I gladly appreciate your continued support to us. May good Lord bless you abundantly.

      Regards,

      Nuwagaba John Charles
      Director Divine empowerment

      Nuwagaba John Charles receiving certificate

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      Serving our brothers and sisters in so many ways

      By Naomi Corera, September 4, 2019

      Thank you to all of the generous supporters who gave Fr. Robert Mukama the gift of a car so he could better serve the Christians of his parish. Today, his car was transformed into an ambulance to take an elderly, very sick mother to the diocesan hospital. Thank you, generous friends of CWE!

      Fr. Robert serving the needs of an elderly, sick mother who otherwise could not have reached the hospital in time to receive urgent medical care. Thank you generous supporters of CWE!

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      Quick update on Good Shepherd Children’s Center

      By Naomi Corera, August 20, 2019

      GOOD SHEPHERD CHILDREN’S CENTER… looking great with the new green roof…oh ..it’s getting exciting… can hardly wait to start setting up.

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      Future home of Good Shepherd Montessori Children’s Center

      By Naomi Corera, July 30, 2019

      This is the future home of Good Shepherd Montessori Children’s Center, surrounded by the green luscious Tea plantations if Fort Portal Diocese.

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      Participate in Camino de Santiago pilgrimage fundraiser in support of CWE

      By Naomi Corera, July 26, 2019

      Dear Friends,

      A fellow supporter of CWE will be going on a pilgrimage to walk 500 miles on the Camino de Santiago in Spain, from St. Jean Pied de Port, France to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, and then on to the Finisterra!  If you would like to consider his invitation to make his 500 mile walk count further by supporting CWE through this inspiring journey, please visit this campaign page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/daniel039s-campaign-for-children-waiting-everywhere

      Thank you for your generosity!

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      Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel Consecrated by Bishop! And what’s next for CWE?

      By Naomi Corera, July 18, 2019

      Dear Friends and Benefactors of Children Waiting Everywhere,

      Oh what a marvelous day it was for the students and the local community. The much awaited chapel to Our Lady of Lourdes was consecrated by Rev. Bishop Odoki, Bishop of Arua Diocese. The excitement and beauty of the whole event was too great to capture on camera (in March 2020 for the Lenten suppers, though, you will see it on video). Our Lady Blessed the day and the whole event. The Bishop invited the people to stand up and look around the chapel and clap for the glory of God and all the friends of CWE who made this possible! My only sadness was that there was no one from the US was there to share that joy with me. I do hope 2020 will be the much anticipated year that friends will come to visit Sts. Peter and Paul Parish and Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel.

      I am still beaming in the goodness of Our Lord and His Mother. No more worshiping under the Mango tree, with no tablernacle or sancturary lamp or holy water font. Now we have it all!
      All I can say, over and over again, is THANK YOU! I pray for you and your families, as each benefactor of CWE is a personal friend of mine! So I know your children and your family – many graduated this year, sad to have missed all the graduation parties.

      Want to know my next dream? Well it’s already under way! Yes you may have guessed it: GOOD SHEPHERD MONTESSORI CENTER for Children of the Tea pickers. So all of you dear families of mine from Ann Arbor and elsewhere, take note. I have been longing to get back to the classroom, where I am happiest! Thirteen years ago I took a break from classroom work to be with my dear mother and now I am so ready to get back to the children in the classroom. The building is already coming up, and next week it will be roofing. The funds we raised from last years Lenten Suppers has almost covered most of the expense! THANK YOU! It is now getting the shelves and furniture and some of the Montessori material. Grand opening will be in February 2020! Please start planning for a trip to see us in JUNE 2020!

      Thank you for your love and trust in CWE – together we accomplish so much for God’s people because we are 100% volunteers! And so are YOU!

      No Fall fundraiser party this year–see you all for the LENTEN SUPPERS in 2020!

      Love you all, God Bless you and your children.

      Naomi

      Consecration Mass

      Recession

      First Baptism in our new Chapel!

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      Grand opening of Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel

      By Naomi Corera, July 8, 2019

      WOW WOW! A long journey of one year of dreams was fulfilled with all the living generosity of MI friends! It was an awesome, spectacular day…attended by the local community. Praise God all the generous friends who contributed to make this happen. God bless you all!

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      Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel – thank you!

      By Naomi Corera, May 17, 2019

      Dear Friends,

      It’s been so long since I wrote to you. Nevertheless, you have been on my mind as I get each project accomplished with your funds!

      Now the completion of Our Lady Of Lourdes Chapel is coming to an end. It has been quite an accomplishment for CWE and you! What started off as a simple chapel for the students has turned out to be a gift to the community at large.

      The chapel is beautiful! Four paintings have been installed: The Divine Mercy, Jesus and the children, Our Lady appearing to Bernadette, and Jesus on the cross handing over His Mother Mary to John thus making her as “Mary Mother Of The Church,” the name of the Congregation that runs the school. We also have 3 beautiful statues: Our Lady of Lourdes over the altar and on the side altar St. Joseph and the Sacred Heart. The large golden tabernacle in the center and the shiny Mahogany pews and the inspiring wooden pictures of the Stations Of The Cross and the religious paintings and the two large statues of dear St. Joseph and the Sacred Heart make it a beautiful House of God for reflection and prayer for the students, teachers and the local community.

      YOU are all part of this gift to the people, who are all at this time worshiping under the mango tree. God Bless you all. I will send you photos after the consecration on June 30th. Please keep this intention in your prayers.

      Thank you all my dear and generous friends.

      Naomi

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      Note of Thanks

      By Naomi Corera, April 16, 2019

      Dear Friends and Partners,

      I am back in Adjumani, Uganda, tired after the busy time in Ann Arbor and the long trip back, but your generous gifts and kindness towards the children makes my heart full of joy and energizes me to continue to work and move forward for God’s children and people. THANK YOU!!

      The funds raised will be used first to LIGHT UP the school classrooms and the dormitories. This was announced to the students and teachers on Palm Sunday.
      Needless to say screams of joy and loud clapping were heard all around. This work will be completed by the end of the month.

      Next we will begin work on building a small convent for the Sisters of St. Therese of the Little Flower, with 3 additional rooms for visitors like YOU!!

      Finally funds will used to build my cherished dream of a Montessori classroom from nursery to kindergarten, operated “my way,” meaning with less children and more teachers in each class, not the norm in Uganda of 60 to 70 children in each class. The name of this school is yet to be decided by the parish priest and me. My choice would be Good Shepherd Montessori School or Children Our Light School.

      We will have to wait until June for the consecration of Our Lady Of Lourdes Chapel as the Bishop has other commitments. Next week the artist will be painting St. Bernadette on the backdrop of the church. I can’t wait to send you the photo of the paintings when it is completed!

      We continue to keep all our donors big and small in our daily prayers for you and your family.

      Gratefully,

      Naomi Corera

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      Join us this Lent, Mar 29 and Apr 5!

      By Naomi Corera, February 27, 2019

      Dear Friends,

      Here we are fast approaching the season of LENT. This is a great way to help the children fulfill the Lenten obligation of Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. Please invite your family and friends to join us for a True Lenten Supper with vegetable Soup and the famous Chavey Breadsticks!

      All proceeds will go towards the children–feed a School or Adopt a Class. Beginning on Ash Wednesday the Family/Children can start saving and filling their ‘Sacrifice Box’ with their own money that they have earned by giving up a purchase of any kind. Any other ideas–let me know.

      See you all soon!

      Naomi

      2019 Lenten Bread and Soup Supper

      St. Thomas Parish Hall
      Friday, March 29, 5:30p
      Friday, April 5, 5:30p
      Followed by Stations of the Cross in church

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      2019 Updates & Lenten Suppers (Mar 29 & Apr 5)

      By Naomi Corera, February 26, 2019

      Greetings to all,

      Hope you are warming up after the cold blast of this past month! We are beginning to change and look forward to cooler weather. 2019 has kept me so busy as progress with the many projects for our students and families. Workers are so slow here they have a hard time keeping up with my pace. They run when they see me approach. They are still wondering about my age, as the women here wind down at an early age after the heavy physical work takes a toll on their body.

      THANK YOU for all your $ gifts. Every penny is given to the students and the families. Most graduations take place during the month of December so I sadly missed the 4 graduations. Just alone in January and February of 2019:

      • 2 Water Pumps– one for the convent and one for the community around.
      • Bright Solar Lightening for the classroom( students now study till 9 and back at their bench at 6:00AM)
      • Painting of Msgr. Bala School classrooms and Lab
      • Vessels/Vestments for Mass for the new chapel has been purchased.
      • Pews for the chapel.
      • Artist painting of St. Bernadette in the New chapel.
      • Bright Solar lightening for the new chapel.
      • School Fees for the sponsored students in University.
      • 4 Laptops donated by the Shelcusky Family for University students.
      • Increment in salary for Bishop Asili Teachers.
      • Renovation of Maternity Room at MaryLand Health Center.

      We are already practicing for our LIVE STATIONS OF THE CROSS AND LAST SUPPER with the students. Yes, Ash Wednesday is next Wednesday! Hope you mark your calendars for the Lenten Suppers at St. Thomas.
      March 29th and April 5th followed by Stations of the Cross at 7p.

      Once again many THANKS for your continued trust and financial support for Children Waiting Everywhere. Working and Partnering together we are sharing God’s goodness to with others. Thank you!

      God Bless you all. I remember you in my prayers each night.

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      Water flowing!

      By Naomi Corera, February 17, 2019

      Our “Maryland” in Uganda has water! The newly renovated water pump for the community at Maryland Adjumani Uganda is working. A pump was installed for the sisters. We thank God for the generosity of the kind friends if Children Waiting Everywhere.

      The water pump was not a source for drinking water as the pipes were old. Now by renovating the pipes through generous gifts from friends Maryland health center and the nearby community have fresh clean drinking water close to home! Praise God for the generosity of friends!

      Not to worry the water is clean and fresh all ready for drinking from the spring below. So children take a break to quench their thirst! In hot and dusty Adjumani, Uganda.

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      Thanksgiving Adopt a Classroom and Teacher

      By Naomi Corera, November 6, 2018

      Hello friends, thinking of you as you get ready to be with family and friends.
      I would like to take this time to thank you and the generous good Lord who through you has provided so much for our families and children. Yes! Your help to us has been a bountiful harvest. We are so, so grateful to you!

      As you plan your Thanksgiving menu and then the Christmas list, here we are winding down our 2018 school year. Me – I am already planning for the new 2019 school year.

      “Adopt a Classroom and its Teacher” 2019

      Each class will need $240 to raise the teacher’s salary from $2 a day to $3 a day ($20 per month for each class).

      Plan A: become a captain for $20 for the entire year, and recruit 11 friends for just $20 for the entire year to adopt one class together.
      Plan B: just give $240 for the entire year!

      I am hoping to get new recruits through you as you chat with family and friends about Children Waiting Everywhere…you are in my prayers as you travel. God bless you all, Naomi.

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      THANK YOU for your prayers, talents, and support! Much work to do!

      By Naomi Corera, October 6, 2018

      Dear Friends,

      It has been a wonderful time in Ann Arbor to get to see you all and share about the good work you are enabling with our brothers and sisters in Uganda. I am especially grateful to everyone who joined us last week for the fundraising dinner with talent show! Your generosity is enabling so much good to happen. We have so much work to do, starting with helping the teachers at one of our schools get a living quarters – theirs collapsed recently and needs to be replaced. Now with funds generously donated, we will be able to complete the Our Lady of Lourdes chapel and get started on the teachers quarters. Our Mother Mary, pray for us!

      God bless you,

      Naomi

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      Vacation Bible school

      By Naomi Corera, August 31, 2018

      The children are on holiday, so today we are doing a vacation Bible school. They especially like the cooking activities!

      Naomi


      Getting ready for vacation Bible school cooking day by collecting firewood for cooking.


      Here is Olivia grating carrot. Adding new words to their limited vocabulary.


      Teaching children to use a knife and cutting board. Here is Lucy cutting green pepper.


      Here the children are making Rosaries with their older siblings and the Sisters.

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      Books!

      By Naomi Corera, August 13, 2018

      Children and books: you cannot separate the two. A book in a child’s hands not only advances the mind with curiosity, but unleashes a world of treasures to a young child. Being a lover of children’s books and having seen the joy it brings to a child when a story is read to them, I was determined to ship all of my carefully chosen books to Uganda, no matter what the cost. I had no idea that the cost would be so high. But now the sacrifice has paid off. Nothing can take away my exuberant joy to see the children devouring the books. Even though at the present it is just browsing through the pictures, soon with time they will be able to read them, too.

      Children are now merrily devouring books at Bishop Asili Primary School! No other school in the district in the area has such an extensive library. The children enjoy spending time in the library that is open throughout the day. I have many show-and-tell articles and animals to go with my story. I have a whole collection of Clifford the Big Red Dog, Franklin, Aesop Fables and lots of animal books. The teachers are amazed at the pin-drop silence as the children eagerly and attentively listen to the story. They really have enjoyed the story of
      “The Gingerbread Boy.” Of course, they have no idea about gingerbread, so they call him the ‘Biscuit’ boy! I must remember to bring back a mitten for the story of the Three Kittens that they have enjoyed, too.

      God bless all those who helped me with the library, with money, prayers, and the many hours of boxing, taping the boxes and loading. A special thank you to Doug W. who also drove the truck for me.

      God bless you all!

      Naomi

      Do you know where giraffes live? I do… They live in Uganda!

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      Save the date, Sep 29, 2018

      By Naomi Corera, August 6, 2018

      Hello Friends and Benefactors,

      This year unlike the past our Annual Fundraiser has been brought forward to coincide with Blessed Mother Mary’s Birthday month. So “You’ve Got Talent” will be celebrated on Saturday, September 29, 6:00pm. Please mark your busy calendars for this special event.

      All proceeds will go to complete the “Our Lady Of Lourdes Chapel” that is moving faster than we expected. Father Robert’s Church, Sts. Peter and Paul, has been completed with the funds collected from the parishioners of St. Thomas. The Christians are so happy with the newly completed church. We even had funds left over so we added a new Sound System for the church. Wow! In just 4 months work completed! Wow!

      Thank you dear friends for your continued trust in our 100% Volunteer Foundation. We take great pride in completing the project undertaken with 100% of the funds used directly for the assigned project.

      God Bless you all as you continue to enjoy family and outdoors. See you all in September.

      Keep thinking of your God given talent (yes, you do have talent)!

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      Breaking ground for new classroom

      By Naomi Corera, August 2, 2018

      We are breaking ground for new classroom for the 7th graders of Bishop Asili Primary School in Adjumani District, Uganda!

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      New Sound System for Sts. Peter and Paul church

      By Naomi Corera,

      Greetings!

      Here are photos of the sound system, the last installation from the funds used for the church from the gift of St. Thomas. We are ever so grateful to all who supported it! In just 4 months we moved fast to have the Tabernacle installed, the sanctuary paintings completed (Sacred Heart of Mary and St. Joseph), the side doors paintings (Divine Mercy and St. Joseph), the main door painting (Sts. Peter and Paul), Stations of the Cross installed, sacristy paved and completed, outside walls cemented and plastered, Mahogany pews in place…all accomplished in 4 quick months!

      I added on to the list a front porch to remove the temporary iron sheets that had been put there to add protection for the main doors. After that is done, with $3,000 for porch, Sts. Peter and Paul church will be totally completed. Hooray! Then it will be ready for re-dedication by Bishop Robert.

      God Bless you,

      Naomi

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      Chapel of Sts. Peter and Paul complete!

      By Naomi Corera, July 16, 2018

      Thanks to the generous gifts from St. Thomas parish, the church of Sts Peter and Paul is complete! Only the front porch on the outside needs to be finalized. Needless to say the parishioners are so thrilled. With some funds left over Fr. Robert is putting in an efficient sound system. Still if funds are left over it will go towards the front porch. The paintings are so awesome and inspiring. The Christians are so grateful for the support. God bless you all.

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      Chapel progress

      By Naomi Corera, July 12, 2018

      Our chapel is moving forward. The children are so excited!

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      Our Lady Of Lourdes Chapel and several other updates

      By Naomi Corera, May 30, 2018

      Hello Friends and Partners in Mission,

      Greetings! Thank you for your kind gifts to make our work with the children possible. Wonderful memories as my Kindergarten students of 2005 from SHEPHERD MONTESSORI have all graduated from HS! Congratulations to them and wishing them God’s Grace as they journey on…

      Exciting happenings in CWE

      1. We began the week with the joyful-blessings music and singing at the ground breaking ceremony for Our Lady of Lourdes chapel for the Bishop Asili students. Now they will have a proper and Holy place to worship each day.
      2. A family of 4 from Holland MI and another young teen from Chicago will be visiting us for one month. I am busy making plans for their mission trip.
      3. 4 new Entrepreneurs! Each unknown to each other have all registered their business as DIVINE…!! They believe only through Divine Providence have they been given this Golden opportunity to own their own business!
      4. Another new admission to the Mountains Of The Moon University in Fort Portal in Business Administration.
      5. 2 students have completed their Diploma as Mid Wives!
      6. 3 more students still in school-Diploma courses.
      7. 30 desks purchased for Msgr. Bala Secondary School
      8. Invited to a US citizens Town Hall meeting. Met the US ambassador to Uganda Ms. Deborah Malack. CWE was the only 100% foundation there! I introduced CWE and all our projects accomplished just with generous friends from Church and school-with no US government funds. All were amazed and clapped after my talk. I asked the ambassador how volunteers like CWE can also be connected and receive US government funds for Electric Power.
        She introduced me to Mark Massick the USAID-CFO Let’s hope he can help us.

      Now that I am “Boots On The Ground” I do a lot of travelling – very challenging and tiresome. But it’s very important for me for accountability to see and know where your funds go and how it is being utilized and keeping you informed.

      Kind Requests for Mahogany Church Pews-(50) Church vessels -and Church vestments for-“Our Lady Of Lourdes Chapel” Total-$5,000.

      Thank you once again dear friends. Each night you are remembered in my prayers for you and your family.

      God Bless you,

      Naomi

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      Greetings from Ann Arbor

      By Naomi Corera, March 6, 2018

      Hello Friends,

      I am in AA for Mom’s first year anniversary and to bring Fr. Robert to Ann Arbor for a Mission Appeal. Just imagine my luxurious, warm shower this morning at my friend’s house. I felt guilty taking that long bath feeling so good with that water gushing down my back. The Blessings of USA!

      See you all on March 17 at St. Thomas Parish Hall, 5:30p.

      Thank you,

      Naomi


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      Visiting with Grace today

      By Naomi Corera, March 1, 2018

      I am visiting with Grace today. She is practicing and adjusting to her new legs.


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      Meet with Fr. Robert on March 17!

      By Naomi Corera, February 14, 2018

      Hello Friends, wishing you all a Holy Lenten Season. Here’s a great opportunity to fulfill our Lenten obligation of almsgiving. Come meet Fr. Robert on March 17 and “Go Green!” with a touch of Ireland. See you in March.

      Lenten Mission Appeal
      Saturday March 17, 2018
      5:30p (after the 4:30p Mass)
      St. Thomas Parish Hall, Ann Arbor MI
      Corned beef, cabbage, pirogies, and entertainment!

      Let’s remember the late Fr. Francis and complete the church building he began. As a Lenten mission appeal, let’s all join hands and complete Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Bulunduzi Parish in Fort Portal, Uganda. When the late Fr. Francis was transferred to the church until today, it remains incomplete. The new parish priest, Fr. Robert Byamukama, will visit us at St. Thomas for a Lenten mission appeal.

      There will also be a second collection during the weekend Mass times on March 17 and 18. Thank you so much for your support!

      God Bless you all,

      Naomi

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      Your Gifts Bring Hope!

      By Naomi Corera, February 8, 2018

      Dear Friends, Greetings to All!
      HAPPY FEAST DAY OF JOSEPHINE BAKHITA, a Saint from Sudan. Here I am in hot and dusty Adjumani with 105 degree weather, while you are freezing in cold Michigan and USA winter!
      First, let me THANK YOU ALL for your generous Christmas Gifts to our children. This was the biggest ever received! All around me is a hive of activity with building, renovation of thatched grass roofs, painting while at the same time istributing your rosaries, caps and sunglasses, and the Boda Boda motorcyclists are ever so grateful as these shield their eyes from the hot dusty sand.
      Once all the activities are completed I will send you the colorful photos. A new dormitory took first place so the Friendship Dinning Hall got a slow start. The Library too is beginning to take shape in a classroom for now as the library room was taken for a dormitory. Lots of new students! All eager to learn and grow!
      Till we meet again…
      God Bless you all.

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      Determined Grace

      By Naomi Corera, January 22, 2018

      Here is a photo of Grace practicing with her new prosthetic legs. Wow! Praise God for His mighty power!

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      Dining hall, hooray!

      By Naomi Corera, January 8, 2018

      Dear CWE Friends,

      Together we have done it! We praise and thank God! God bless you all with a fruitful New Year.
      Naomi

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      Happy Happy THANKS

      By Naomi Corera, November 17, 2017

      Hello dear friends and co-partners,

      Children Waiting Everywhere and I send you wishes for a Happy Happy Thanksgiving as you gather around the table with family and friends to GIVE THANKS TO GOD! We take this opportunity to GIVE YOU THANKS, TOO! Looking forward to seeing you all in December. God Bless you for your generous donations to the children.

      Naomi

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      New Tabernacle for Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Fort Portal

      By Naomi Corera,

      Thank you to our generous donor who has visited Uganda with me before and who recently gifted the funds for this beautiful tabernacle for Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Fort Portal!

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      Back in December! “Come and see” the fruits of your gifts to our children

      By Naomi Corera, November 13, 2017

      Dear friends,

      As you count your blessings, we thank you for sharing your blessings with us during this year. Come and see the fruits of your gifts to our children. Saturday, December 9, 5:30-7:30p, in the St. Thomas Parish Hall, followed by a Ugandan supper.

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      Hooray! Bandages gone!

      By Naomi Corera, October 6, 2017

      Praise God! Grace is ready for her New Legs! Yes, we have a Great and Wonderful God! It will take a lot of hard work for her to practice walking with her new legs. But with her determination and Joy she will succeed! Will keep you updated as she begins her journey of walking for the first time in her life–actually after 9 years. God Bless you all as we cheer her on.

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      Smiling Grace

      By Naomi Corera, September 28, 2017

      Dear Friends,

      Always thanks to you, Grace will be able to walk soo after 9 years of getting around on her knees. God Bless you all. My computer and internet is in full operation now.

      Naomi

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      First communion

      By Naomi Corera, September 26, 2017

      Dear friends,

      Greetings! An update of recent happenings here in Uganda.

      From the western part of beautiful, cool Fort Portal, I have moved to the hot north of Arua Diocese in Adjumani District. This area of full of camps and settlements of refugees from South Sudan. This is where the Bishop had requested a nursery school, which we already built through your generous gifts.

      I have found my niche working with Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Church. MARYLAND is a large area with a school health center and an orphanage of South Sudanese children right behind us. Challenges include no electricity, and thus no power to draw water from the well. The Bishop has kindly offered me a nice, comfortable home in the Diocese, 6 hours away.

      I will begin to use it when I go there for meetings with the Diocese. The Bishop wants me to help with the “Holy Childhood Society,” which is directly under the Pope. The local priests and community have noticed my organizational skills and need my help with many projects. I am so happy to help! I have started Eucharistic Adoration in the Parish and in the 2 high schools.

      More to follow…God bless you all.

      Naomi

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      Sacraments under the mango tree

      By Naomi Corera, September 25, 2017

      Hello Friends,

      Last Sunday the children received the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist and Baptism under the mango tree. We hope we can help them build a chapel soon.

      God Bless you,

      Naomi

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      Ester, the proud owner of a sewing shop

      By Naomi Corera, September 7, 2017

      Thanks to the love and effort of Sarah Stachak, Esther the tailor is now the proud owner of the sewing stall. Here is Esther receiving the title of the shop from the seller (wearing white cap). Esther now has great plans with her newly owned shop. She would like to give back to the community for what she has so freely received by having sewing classes in her shop for young less fortunate girls in her neighborhood.

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      Empowering Women

      By Naomi Corera, September 6, 2017

      Last week I visited Nancy in Ruai, Kenya, and her family to see her pig project. Now from three pigs they have multiplied to twelve! They are so grateful to the friends who gifted them the pigs. This brings in much needed income for the families.

      Naomi

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      Ribbon cutting for new Holy Family School in Arua Diocese, Uganda

      By Naomi Corera, September 5, 2017

      Here are photos from the ribbon cutting at the new Holy Family School in the Arua Diocese of Uganda, made possible by your support to Children Waiting Everywhere. Thank you!

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      Solar-powered lights for Dorothy’s dormitory

      By Naomi Corera, August 14, 2017

      Let there be light for the children! Thanks to friends we are now adding lighting through solar power for Mama Dorothy’s Dormitory.

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      Video of Jonathan, Sajese, and refugee children

      By Naomi Corera, August 12, 2017

      Hello, friends! I’m happy that I was recently able to visit with Jonathan, Sajese, and a large group of refugee children from South Sudan. Here is a video of them!

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      Thanks for your prayers

      By Naomi Corera, July 25, 2017

      Dear Friends,

      All went well with the first group of children. All will receive the necessary physical therapy and assistive devices (such as crutches), with the exception of Grace, who has been walking on her knees her whole life. She will have her surgery on August 13. After the healing from surgery, she will receive her prosthetics and physical therapy for walking with the assistive devices. It will be a long process, but with a happy ending!

      Thanks for your prayers.

      God Bless,

      Naomi

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      Children Waiting in Uganda with physical disabilities

      By Naomi Corera, July 19, 2017

      Last week as I visited St. Theresa’s Primary School, I was so saddened to see 12 children with physical disabilities in the various classrooms. Although their conditions would have been treated at a younger age in wealthy countries, their poverty has kept them from getting the necessary and proper care. So I spoke with the Sisters of “The Daughters of Mary” who run the school and heard about the sad plight of these children.

      So thanks be to God, on Friday Sister Maria Goretti and I will hire a van and take the children and one parent each to Corsu Hospital in Kampala. The journey is six hours. On Monday the doctors will review each case and decide if surgery is possible to correct the child’s defect. Please pray that all children will be accepted for surgery. This is another new project for Children Waiting Everywhere. We all know and believe that God is the ultimate Healer! Your gifts once again making a positive change in a child’s life!

      Keep them in your prayers.

      God Bless you all.

      Naomi

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      God bless America!

      By Naomi Corera, June 29, 2017

      GOD BLESS AMERICA!
      GOD BLESS THE GENEROUS AMERICANS!

      Dear Friends,

      Thinking of you and thanking you for all your help for the children and people of Uganda through CWE. “Proud To Belong to America” is what one can shout when one sees the work done by Americans. I am so happy to experience the HOPE that we are bringing to our brothers and sisters here. Life is hard and tiresome. The people are warm and happy in spite of their struggles–which they have accepted.

      The latest news:

      Completion of the Girls Dormitory

      I will be moving in there shortly. We are in the process of looking for a partner for me to work side by side since I am a foreigner and do not know the local language. English is the National language but the older folks who have not attended school do not speak English.
      Starting on the building of a CHAPEL for John/Patrick Secondary School. The students now celebrate mass in the school hall. Now from September mass will be celebrated in the New Chapel funded by a generous parishioner of St. Thomas Parish.

      We are employing the local carpenters of St. Joseph The Worker to make the Altar tables, Pews, and Lectionary. We are planning on a very special tabernacle and Monstrance to spread the devotion of Eucharistic Adoration. The local priests are very supportive to our students and help us with the celebration of Mass for our students.
      Out first Mass in the New Chapel will be celebrated in a grand way in September when the students return for the third term.
      The 135 boxes of books and classroom material has arrived!! We are now in the process of clearing it from Mombasa Kenya. A few mistakes by me with the address has to be corrected before it can be released. The Bishop of Arua is helping me with that.

      HOLY FAMILY NURSERY SCHOOL

      The school will open with a grand celebration in August. Invitations are now being sent to the ambassador of the US, UNCHR ( office in charge of Refugees) and other dignitaries. The goal being for them to see that this school for the refugee children is just a drop in the bucket and many such schools need to be desperately built and we will need further funding from big agencies. So that is all the update from CWE-Uganda. Striving to get the most out of your gift and trust in us.

      God Bless you,

      Naomi

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      A Visit with Jonathan

      By Naomi Corera, June 19, 2017

      Friends, I was so happy to see Jonathan! He is recovered completely and living a joyful life. Here are photos of our dear friend!

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      Sajese is walking!

      By Naomi Corera,

      Friends, I was so happy to see Sajase and her mother. She is walking, thanks be to God!

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      Dare to Dream Benefit Concert, July 29!

      By Naomi Corera, June 16, 2017

      David Harburg is daring to dream by performing in a concert to raise $11,000 in order to restore a vocational school in Kyakatara, Uganda.

      July 29, 7:30p, at Towsley Auditorium on WCC’s campus.
      GREAT-GRANDSON OF “OVER THE RAINBOW” WRITER PERFORMING TO RAISE MONEY FOR UGANDA

      David is scheduled to perform with an engaging group of musicians at Towsley Auditorium on Washtenaw Community College’s campus on July 29, 7:30p. David’s performance will feature classics from his great-grandfather Yip’s songs including “Over the Rainbow,” “Brother Can You Spare a Dime,” “Old Devil Moon,” and several David Harburg originals. Hear David’s debut album “Harburg Recapitulations” available now on most digital music stores (Spotify: http://spoti.fi/2q8RcxU). Join us at Dare to Dream, the benefit concert for Uganda. “Dare to Dream” #daretodreamconcert – Eventbrite: http://bit.ly/2rl2Qpl.
      For more information visit www.davidharburg.com.

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      More Refugees Flocking to Uganda

      By Naomi Corera, June 14, 2017

      Refugee camps are filling with more refugees flocking to Uganda from Republic of Congo, where atrocities are being committed on mothers and children. Congloese families are waiting in line to be registered by the UN officials. One of the mothers told me, “Our Catholic Faith is what sustains us.”

      Naomi

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      Holy Family school nearing completion

      By Naomi Corera, June 8, 2017

      Dear friends,

      Greetings! Holy Family School nearing completion! The construction work is going on well. The roofing is done and plastering of the walls is on going. Here are some of the pictures. The grand opening will be in July. Anyone interested in coming?


      God Bless you all.

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      Francis, seminarian student

      By Naomi Corera, June 2, 2017

      Francis is an 18 year old student at St John’s Minor seminary in the Kasese Diocese. Here in Uganda those interested in considering priesthood attend a minor seminary to finish high school. David Harburg and his family, together with Fr. Nate Harburg, are sponsoring Francis. Without their support, Francis would not be able to attend this school. Here I am meeting the student and handing over the funds to the Rector of the seminary, Father Francis. God willing, there will be two by the name of Father Francis here!

      Thank you and God bless you,

      Naomi

      P.S. Happy feast day of the Ugandan Martyrs on June 3rd.

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      Mum Dorothy’s Dormitory

      By Naomi Corera, May 31, 2017

      Hello Friends,

      I just visited the children of Bishop Asili school. The children are very happy with their new beds and the Sisters of Mary Mother of the Church are most grateful. My mother will be happy to see MOM spelled in the British spelling, MUM, as she learned her spellings the British way. Each parent will provide their own mattress, and this proves to be more hygenic as the parents will then take their child’s mattress home at the end of the year. MUM too will be smiling from Heaven as she sees the children sleeping
      comfortably in their snug beds.

      Thanks to all who made this possible.

      Naomi

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      Holy Family School under construction

      By Naomi Corera, May 29, 2017

      Hello friends,

      I finally found some internet sitting on top of a hill. Here I am in Arua Diocese, sending you pictures of the Holy Family School in the Nyamanzi Settlement. The school should be finished by mid July.
      I’m so glad to have the many friends of the US, mainly from the Lansing
      Diocese, be represented in this refugee camp of mostly refugee mothers
      and children from South Sudan. Please make plans to come and visit me and the children!

      Greetings for Bishop Sabina Odoki, who is so grateful to you for your
      gift of the funds to build this school. For the school colors, I have asked for the roof to be red for Jesus, blue walls for Mother Mary, and green for St. Joseph, thus making the colors of the Holy Family.

      God Bless you all. I’m thinking and praying for you every day.

      Naomi

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      Bunks delivered for Dorothy’s Dormitory

      By Naomi Corera, May 8, 2017

      It’s Mothers’ Day, hooray! The beds have arrived for the children, and they eagerly watched the truck (“lorrie”) pull up with their bunk beds. My mother Dorothy would be so glad to see the children snuggled into their new beds, way above the ground. We thank the many donors who made this possible for the children. I can’t wait to see the children using their beds while I’m in Uganda. I will send you more pictures and keep you posted of the new Dorothy’s Dormitory.

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      The children cheered as the “lorrie” (truck) pulled in with the beds.

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      The children help move the bunk bed frames into the dormitory.

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      Dorothy’s Dormitory

      By Naomi Corera, April 20, 2017

      Hooray! Hooray, for Dorothy’s dormitory! In three weeks, Mom has her dormitory for the children. For Mother’s Day, the children will be sleeping soundly in their new bunk beds. Thanks for supporting them in my mother’s memory.
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      Books for Dorothy’s Library headed for Uganda

      By Naomi Corera, April 19, 2017

      Children Waiting Everywhere and the many volunteers helping to pack the boxes and load them onto the truck to have them shipped off to Uganda. Dorothy’s Library will be built and operated for the Primary School children in Kamwenge District in Uganda. The setup will take many months, so we will update you as we progress. For now, the books are on their way to Uganda!

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      Sajese walking!

      By Naomi Corera, March 14, 2017

      Hello Dear Friends,

      By the grace of God I witnessed the true power of God’s healing touch. Sajese has another visit with the surgeon next month. In the meantime she has been advised to walk only short distances giving the bone more time to heal.

      Thanks for all your prayers for this Congolese refugee.

      Naomi

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      Join us for Lent 2017 fundraising suppers!

      By Naomi Corera, March 8, 2017

      This Lent, you can make a choice to live simply so others may simply live. What do you spend on a typical dinner out for your family? Would you consider sacrificing a restaurant meal for a simple soup meal so that other families in Africa can thrive? Come support Children Waiting Everywhere at our Lenten suppers. Each supper is an opportunity to practice the three pillars of Lent: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

      2017 Lenten Suppers

      1. March 3, 2017, 5-6p, St. Thomas the Apostle parish hall, Ann Arbor. After the meal, everyone is invited for Stations of the Cross in the church at 7p.
      2. March 10, 2017, 6-7p, St. Thomas a’Becket Church Family Life Center, Canton. This evening includes live music during the meal, and a Taize Prayer Service for Refugees after the meal, with music provided by the St. Thomas a’Becket Choir.
      3. March 17, 2017, 5-6p, St. Thomas the Apostle parish hall, Ann Arbor. This evening includes family entertainment and bagpipes. After the meal, everyone is invited for Stations of the Cross in the church at 7p.
      4. March 24, 2017, 5-6p, St. Thomas the Apostle parish hall, Ann Arbor. After the meal, everyone is invited for Stations of the Cross in the church at 7p.

      There are no tickets or reservations, just free will donations. Thank you, God bless you, and see you soon!
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      Great news for our refugee brothers and sisters: Holy Family Nursery School!

      By Naomi Corera,

      Dear Friends

      I just returned from Ajumani, Uganda, and oh how great it is to be Catholic! The people of the Catholic church, both clergy and lay people, are doing great work for God’s people, especially the refugees in Uganda. They are mostly mothers, children, and the elderly. Many men remain behind to fight or have already been killed in the senseless fighting.

      With your gifts we will begin the construction of the Holy Family Nursery School for the “wee refugees” of South Sudan and Congo. I hope many of you will be able to share in the joy of the opening of the school by being present for the opening and cutting of the ribbon, maybe 4 to 5 months from now. Our brothers and sisters are suffering and we are sharing in their hardships. How great it is to share our God given Blessing with others.

      God Bless you all,

      Naomi
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      Off to Uganda to meet the refugees!

      By Naomi Corera, February 21, 2017

      Dear Friends,

      Greetings! My bags are packed with the rosaries and balloons for the children. All set to go tomorrow for Uganda to visit the Ajumani Settlement. My main purpose in going is not just to meet the dear children but also to know where and how your generous gifts will be spent. CWE is very dedicated to showing you always the clarity of all expenditures. I will meet the Bishop and Brother Sanctus, who will be in charge of the construction of the St. Edigio Nursery School.

      This afternoon I found out from the head teacher of the primary school that there are 210 students in the Grade 1 class, and 299 in the Grade 2 class. Thank God I will have enough balloons for them. So you see the need for the Nursery School which also will fill up fast.

      I will return on Ash Wednesday just in time for the Lenten Suppers. So come and see the videos and hear all about the Refugees children from Congo and S. Sudan and be a part of the Pope’s Mission of welcoming the Refugees and sharing our Blessings with them.

      2017 Lenten Suppers

      1. March 3, 2017, 5-6p, St. Thomas the Apostle parish hall, Ann Arbor. After the meal, everyone is invited for Stations of the Cross in the church at 7p.
      2. March 10, 2017, 6-7p, St. Thomas a’Becket Church Family Life Center, Canton. This evening includes live music during the meal, and a Taize Prayer Service for Refugees after the meal, with music provided by the St. Thomas a’Becket Choir.
      3. March 17, 2017, 5-6p, St. Thomas the Apostle parish hall, Ann Arbor. This evening includes family entertainment and bagpipes. After the meal, everyone is invited for Stations of the Cross in the church at 7p.
      4. March 24, 2017, 5-6p, St. Thomas the Apostle parish hall, Ann Arbor. After the meal, everyone is invited for Stations of the Cross in the church at 7p.

      Thank you,

      Naomi
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      David Jebb doing great work

      By Naomi Corera, February 20, 2017

      David Jebb continues to share his knowledge and passion of bees and honey and making bee hives with the students of John/Patrick School and the Brothers of St. Joseph The Worker and other local people of Fort Portal, Uganda.
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      David Jebb has arrived!

      By Naomi Corera, February 17, 2017

      David Jeb of Saline, Michigan, has arrived in Uganda to share his expertise on bees and honey! He is working with the Brothers of St. Joseph The Worker and other local people and students of Fort Portal. img-20170216-wa0006

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      Visiting the refugee children this month

      By Naomi Corera, February 8, 2017

      Here are the children of the Nyumanzi settlement of the Arua Diocese. They have graduated from the camps into the settlements. The older children attend the parish Primary school. The “Little Ones” are excitedly waiting for Children Waiting Everywhere with the help of generous benefactors to build the Nursery school.

      I will be leaving the end of the month to meet the children and see the site. This is to ensure that your funds are well spent and every penny put into good use for the purpose it was given for. CWE prides itself in accurate accountability to its donors.

      God Bless you,

      Naomi

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      You’re invited! Lenten Bread & Soup Supper with St. Patrick’s Day Entertainment

      By Naomi Corera, February 3, 2017

      What do you usually spend for a Friday night dinner? Give it to the children!

      Your family is invited to a Lenten Bread & Soup Supper with St. Patrick’s Day Entertainment, with bagpipes, on Friday, March 17, at 5:00p, at the Saint Thomas the Apostle Parish Hall, followed by Stations of the Cross at 7:00p in the main church. This year we are especially serving the “Wee” refugees fleeing S. Sudan and Congo to Uganda.

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      Bon voyage to David Jeb

      By Naomi Corera, January 25, 2017

      Here is David Jeb of Saline, Michigan, getting excited for his trip to Uganda on the 13th of February. He is supporting and continuing our idea, to eradicate poverty by empowering people with business income generated by their own hands and efforts. He will be sharing his passion and knowledge of honey bees with the Brothers of St. Joseph The Worker and other local people and students of Fort Portal.

      CWE is so grateful to David for undertaking this project and to help others start up their own honey business like himself. We know that he will Bee loved by the Ugandan people and will become “Honey to all”! We wish him a safe journey. God be with him.img_2423-copy

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      Healing Continues For Sajese

      By Naomi Corera, January 24, 2017

      Sajese is doing well! She can walk without crutches and uses jut one crutch for long distances! After yesterday’s review the doctor advised to apply another cast for a month to allow more ambulation and bone growth.
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      Bidi Bidi refugee camp

      By Naomi Corera, January 23, 2017

      Hello Friends.

      I just received some pictures from Fr. Francis, a Divine Word priest who accompanied the children from S. Sudan. The “Little Refugees” are so happy to have Father with them to help them assimilate into the Ugandan-English speaking culture. He said it is very hot and dusty, no place to even sit to chat with the children. Yet they are happy to be in a safe place. God Bless you all for your gifts to the “Little Refugees!”

      Gratefully,

      Naomi

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      The Christmas Miracle Goes On…

      By Naomi Corera, January 18, 2017

      As I was leaving church after the morning Mass, the gentleman behind stopped me and asked, “Have you reached your goal for the Nursery School in the refugee camp?” When I said, “Not yet,” he asked me, “How much are you short?” I replied, “$5,000”.

      He then closed his eyes for a moment then quietly replied, “I will see what I can do.”

      I came home and prayed, “Oh Lord, Thy will be done.” The next day, I received an email from him that he will have a check send to us for $5,000! Praise God! HE always provides for us exactly what we need! The man from Mass later told me that it was the exact amount he was thinking of giving, but did not exactly know where to gift it. The day he gave me the check in church was his birthday. So we both CELEBRATED!

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      “Little Refugees”: goal for 2017, build school for refugees

      By Naomi Corera, January 11, 2017

      img_7582You’ve probably read stories like this about the enormous influx of refugees to Uganda in 2016: “Three months ago, it was a tiny Ugandan village. Now it’s the world’s fourth-largest refugee camp.” Our dear friends in Uganda feel the pain of their brothers and sisters who have migrated into Uganda to escape violence in Chad and South Suda.

      For this year, then, together with the Bishop of Arua, Uganda, we want to get the refugee children out of their tents and into St. Edigio Nursery School. The building will have three classrooms and will house about 200 children. It will be a drop in the bucket financially considering the number of children who will attend, and it will be a start to bring them closer to Jesus and His Blessed Mother. Once we receive the rest of the funds ($20,000 for the complete construction, over half raised in the final weeks of 2016!) and start the building, we hope to have it completed by May. The plans have already been prepared (see a snipped below)! Then any CWE partner is welcome to attend the grand opening! So let’s get to work and achieve our goal of $20,000. Spread the word to family and friends.

      God Bless you,

      Naomi

      A snippet of the classroom construction plans

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      The latest news on 7 year old Sajese

      By Naomi Corera, January 9, 2017

      Sajese just had her review with the surgeon. The external fixator was removed, and a walking cast was applied to enable her to put more weight on her leg for better healing. The cast will be removed in two weeks and she’ll receive a splint for mild support. We are praying for a complete recovery for her, so she can attend school in February!
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      Sajese’s story

      By Naomi Corera, January 4, 2017

      I met little Sajese in September 2016 in Kasese, Uganda, which borders Congo. She and her family had fled Congo. She caught my eye because as all the other children were dancing and clapping, while little 8 year old Sajese was holding her crutches. After having spoken with her parents, I was told that she had fallen sometime ago and the surgery that was done in Congo was unsuccessful. The bone had not connected, and hence she still needed the crutches. CWE brought her to Katalemwa, a home for children with disabilities. With their help, Sajese was taken to Corsu hospital in Kampala for x-rays and was told a successful surgery could be done. Hooray!

      With CWE’s support, she received surgery and now we are waiting for her checkup with the orthopedic surgeon on January 15, and then for the day we have all been waiting for…to throw away her crutches! All things are possible with God!img_20160917_034556

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      A Christmas miracle!

      By Naomi Corera, December 22, 2016

      Dear Friends,

      I want to share with you our Christmas Miracle.

      The Bishop of Arua, Uganda, urgently made an appeal if CWE could help to build a classroom for the children of the refugees coming from Congo and South Sudan to his diocese. He said the refugees numbered around 500,000, most of them children. So to get them out of the classroom tents and provide some kind of activities, he needed a large classroom with 4 walls, windows, doors, and of course the pit latrine with 4 stalls. Water is available. The cost is $20,000 for the large classroom building.

      I told him we were just a very small foundation depending totally on God through friends from school and church. So I got to praying and told the Lord if I get at least $10,000 before the end of the year, CWE will go ahead and begin the building and work hard during the year to beg for the other $10,000.

      Can you believe it! The first check I opened when I went to Dominos Farms and picked up the mail: wow! $5,000! (By the way I never open the envelopes till I first take the mail to the Dominos chapel and pray over it for the multiplication of loaves and fishes—checks in this case). Adding all the checks that afternoon: $9,750!

      I shared the joy with my friend Joanna who was spending the night with me. “Oh, I can give you the $250 to make the $10,000,” she said. Wow! It all happened in one evening.

      “With God All Things Are Possible”

      I was so excited that I had to sit down and write this to you right away! But I didn’t have to wait. Oh no! It is the door bell. Who could it be at this hour? Well, it was my former student dropping off a check. Thanks be to God!

      Oh no! It’s the door bell again-this time the father of one of my former students.

      He said “We are going to India tomorrow and won’t be back till next year, so I wanted to drop off the check today.

      On Christmas Eve, I opened my front door and there was a box of chocolates with an envelope. What was inside? You guessed it! Another $2,000! Wow, it is only the 24th and we just need $5,500 to complete the $20,000!

      The Hope of Christmas has come to the “Little Refugees.”

      Thank you, Mr. Carriere. Your e-mail urged me on!

      God Bless you,

      Naomi

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      Esther recovering well

      By Naomi Corera, December 19, 2016

      Hello Friends. I’m so glad to report that Esther is recovering well, under the care of the kind orthopedic surgeon and the sisters. The timeline for throwing away the crutches is February. Praise God! She is looking forward to spending Christmas day with her family. God Bless you all for helping Esther and her family.

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      Local student raises awareness and funds

      By Naomi Corera, December 10, 2016

      Nate Ernst, a middle school student at Emerson, was deeply touched by the pictures and stories he heard after having hosted little Jonathan in his home. He wanted to do more for the children of Uganda. After receiving permission from the school, Nate held a sale of handmade Ugandan crafts to help children like him attend school in Uganda. Nate has already raised $485 and hopes to keep on raising more money for the children. CWE applauds Nate and his parents, Dr. Robert Ernst and Dr. Susan Ernst, for the help and encouragement they have given Nate to follow his passion of helping those who have less. It is never too early to instill in young children the responsibility we have towards others and to raise awareness of how richly blessed we are. Nate, we are so proud of you and we hope one day you will have the chance to visit the children you are helping!
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      Thank you from the Three Amigos

      By Naomi Corera, December 5, 2016

      Yesterday we hosted an evening of gratitude for the three young men from St. Thomas who volunteered in Uganda to build a renovated classroom at Bishop Magambo Primary School. Here is the presentation they gave. Thank you, Joe, Joseph, and David!
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      Celebrate Advent and hear reflections from the “three faces who changed places”

      By Naomi Corera, November 5, 2016

      You are invited to come hear the experiences of three young men who answered the call and visited our dear friends in Uganda, at St. Thomas Parish Hall on Sunday, Dec 4, 4-6p (time changed!). They raised funds for a new school building, and visited to help finish the construction. There will be a Filipino orchestra with Ugandan food as we raise awareness of our blessings and the challenges faced by our dear brothers and sisters in Uganda.africa-2016-april12

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      Crafts sale Friday Nov 4 for families in Haiti

      By Naomi Corera, October 31, 2016

      Dear friends, we are hosting a craft sale of handmade African goods in Lobby C of Dominos Farms. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the families of Haiti who were recently victims of Hurricane Matthew, through the help of the Missionaries of Charity (the order of sisters founded by St. Mother Theresa of Kalkutta). Please come help us support their great cause!
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      Classroom in Uganda now complete!

      By Naomi Corera, October 15, 2016

      We are happy to share the good news that the classroom building and renovations for Bishop Magambo Primary School in Uganda are now complete! Again, we are so grateful to three young men from the Ann Arbor area, Joe, Joseph, and David, for their fundraising efforts and hard work on the project in Uganda.

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      Drumming up support for Ester’s surgery

      By Naomi Corera,

      Hello dear friends, here is Esther the tailor, the best tailor in all of Kenya! She has no eye ball in one eye and with just one good leg she pedals
      away to keep sewing to feed her 6 children and 2 of her deceased brother. CWE took her to the surgeon to inquire about fixing her broken knee of 3 years. Esther did not beg she kept on working in spite of her physical disabilities, and of course trusting in God! Esther has suffered for 3 years! The surgeon assured us that in 3 months he can have her walking, but first the surgery is required. So if you are so touched and can help–the operation will cost just $800. Please contact Naomi to give Esther the BEST CHRISTMAS GIFT! God Bless you all and please pray for the success of this operation.
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      Update on Jonathan’s Story

      By Naomi Corera, September 3, 2016

      Three year old Jonathan was in need of surgery to remove a huge tumor on the side of his neck. Once Ms. Naomi discovered him and his medical need, she contacted her friends back in Michigan to please help. Children Waiting Everywhere was able to fly Jonathan to have this life-changing surgery.
      It was only through the generosity of supporters of Children Waiting Everywhere and the University of Michigan Hospital that it was made possible.
      Mom, Jonathan, and Ms. Naomi at home today. What a beautiful gift!
      All because of the people who support Children Waiting Everywhere with
      prayers, financial support, and volunteer their time to this mission.

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      New classroom is almost complete!

      By Naomi Corera, August 24, 2016

      Thanks to the fundraising efforts (including a concert!) by three local young men, David Harburg, Joe Shelcusky, and Joe Stolarski, we are happy that renovations are nearly finished on a formerly dilapidated classroom at Bishop Magambo Primary School in Uganda. Joe, Joseph, and David will visit Uganda with CWE, leaving on September 8, to see the classroom and complete the final touches of paint and blackboards. Thank you to these loving young men and the community for making this happen! Praise God!
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      Update on 2 Sep 2016: concrete complete!

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      Concert for Uganda – Featuring Local Artist David Harburg

      By Naomi Corera, July 25, 2016

      Hello all!

      Come join us August 27th, 2016 at 7:30pm for a fundraising concert starring David Harburg and friends! All proceeds go to build a classroom and paint the Bishop Magambo Primary School in Uganda. See details in the link below!

      http://www.davidharburg.com/
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      Bishop Magambo Primary Classroom

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      UMHS and Jonathan win EMMY

      By Naomi Corera, June 21, 2016

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      We are so happy to announce that the YouTube documentary on Jonathan was first nominated for 3 EMMY awards and now it has won the Michigan EMMY award! If you missed it, you can watch the video here. The University of Michigan Health System and our dear Jonathan were selected the winners of the health science special program at the 38th annual Michigan National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences EMMY awards. Thanks to all who played a part for this miracle for Jonathan to happen! We hope that his award magnifies what happens when God’s people work together for the Glory of God and the Good of God’s children!

      Here is the video by UMHS about Jonathan:
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      Here is the acceptance speech from the UMHS team:

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      Wonderful updates from Africa!

      By Naomi Corera, April 30, 2016

      Dear Friends,

      Greetings to all!

      I have just returned from Kenya and Uganda after having visited our many projects. The reason for my visit is to bring accountability and report to you.

      Lenten Bread/Soup Suppers enabled us to buy a cow for Anne and her family. “Blessing,” as they have named the cow, was happy to see me, too! They are now milking 7 liters per day and hope to have more within the next few months after Blessing gives birth to her calf. The piggery, chicken, and goat projects are all bringing much-needed income for the families to pay their children’s school fees! Freeing them from DEPENDENCY to INDEPENDENCE!

      Buy A Gift And Give A Gift Of Education to a child – 100% goes to the tailor. The Mother’s sewing project is also doing well with the new sewing machines, tables and irons that were purchased. Their challenge is selling the items they make. So I filled my bags with aprons, placemats, and shoulder bags for sale here at Christmas. So please consider purchasing a gift from us whenever you have to buy a birthday or Christmas present. I call it “Double Dip” – two for the price of one! Wow!

      Girls Dormitory Building – needs to be completed still!

      Next anticipated project – bee keeping and selling honey!

      Padre Pio/Mother Teresa operating theater for Babies – in collaboration with the canonization of Mother Teresa in September we are raising funds to add on an Operating room to save the babies who are risk of dying at  birth due to being breached, or other complications that are could have been avoided if only they had the facilities under a doctor’s care.

      As always I return with great “Labor Pains” – our brothers and sisters waiting for us to share our abundant blessings with them, begging us for BASIC NEEDS! So I appeal to you again to continue to make that sacrifice for our brothers and sisters so they do not have to wait and suffer such hardships because we have kept our wealth for our own comfort. Thank you dear friends for all your support. We are so grateful to you. Anytime you can come and see and experience the JOY you bring to those who have less, please consider visiting our brothers and sisters in Kenya and Uganda!
      God Bless you and your family,

      Naomi

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      Stephen -sponsored student

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      Jonathan --now attening school

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      Magda, CWE-supported student, on scholarship in Finland!

      By Naomi Corera, March 31, 2016

      Magda is having fun in the snow, trying out her abilities in skiing, challenging herself academically, and enjoying the company of her wonderful Finnish host family. Keep making us proud, Magda!
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      AMAZING support at 2016 Bread & Soup lenten dinners!

      By Naomi Corera, March 22, 2016

      The funds collected from the three 2016 Bread and Soup suppers will be used for:

      1. Empowerment for one mother in Kenya: Ann, a mother of five, has been presented with a long-awaited cow.
      2. Tuition for two university students in Uganda: Bridget, a vocational school student in Fort Portal, Uganda, for her studies to be a midwife; and Andrew, who is pursuing an education degree at the Mountains of the Moon Catholic University in Fort Portal Uganda.
      3. More construction for finishing the girls dormitory attached to our John Patrick Secondary School in Kamwenge, Uganda (more funds are still needed to complete the full structure).

      We are so grateful to all those who attended our simple, truly Lenten suppers. Each year we know we face the tough competition of the fish fries from neighboring churches, but God always provides for us! Have a Blessed Holy week.

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      Ann smiling as she receives the cow for her family

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      With help from 2016 Bread and Soup supporters, Bridget is continuing her vocational studies to be a midwife in Fort Portal, Uganda.

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      Also with help from this year’s generous Bread and Soup attendees, Andrew is completing his education degree in Uganda.

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      We are so grateful to everyone who attended this year’s Bread and Soup suppers, and also to everyone who helped! You did an amazing job each week! It takes many hands to set-up the hall and get the bread and soup ready in the kitchen.
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      Thank you from Ann to Bread and Soup supporters!

      By Naomi Corera, March 18, 2016

      Ann and her family waited almost a year to get their cow, and now they are so happy to be able to receive their cow! It has been visited and inspected with the government vet and cleared for their home’s farm. Thank you to our many donors who attended our first two Lenten Bread and Soup suppers – you made this dream come true for Ann and her 5 children!

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      Children Waiting Everywhere is dedicated to eradicating poverty through education and employment. We thank the Good Lord for our generous friends who continue to support us!

      The egg-laying chickens are helping the Sisters, too!

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      Lastly, here are photos of the aprons, handbags, and placemats from our sewing entrepreneurs in Uganda!
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      Marie in Uganda visiting CWE projects

      By Naomi Corera, March 1, 2016

      Marie, one of our generous donors, is currently visiting Uganda to see the CWE’s recent projects, including the sewing entrepreneurship project. Here she is greeted by the students of Holy Spirit primary school in Kyakatara, Uganda, which is supported by CWE, and in the church of St. Peter, where the tabernacle and the pews were donated by friends of CWE.
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      Sewing machines for families in Uganda, and egg-laying chickens for families and Sisters in Kenya!

      By Naomi Corera, February 15, 2016

      We are very happy to share two updates from the Sisters in Fort Portal, Uganda, and Ruai, Kenya. Thanks to extra Christmas generosity from people like you, we were able to give two sewing machines with tables, plus fabric and tools, to the community in Fort Portal, Uganda. There are classes now to teach people, especially young mothers, to sew items such as aprons and mats. See the three aprons that they have already made! Each apron can raise about $15 in market for them, an incredible boost for a small family. Also, in Ruai, Kenya, two families and the Sisters are now in the chicken raising and egg selling business. Each family and the Sisters were given 200 day old chicks. It took a lot of effort to keep them alive. For instance they had to keep the alarm clock every hour and make sure they were warm and not being stepped on or that they have not fallen into the water. The first 7 months all the funds went on feeding. Now after 7 months, success! Eggs! Eggs! For sale! Yahoo!

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      Sewing machines in Fort Portal, Uganda

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      Sewing machines in Fort Portal, Uganda

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      The newly-sewn aprons can bring $15 in market!

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      Sister Especiosa and Sister Esther with their much-anticipated eggs, in Ruai, Kenya

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      Sister Especiosa and Sister Esther with their much-anticipated eggs, in Ruai, Kenya

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      Sister Especiosa and Sister Esther with their much-anticipated eggs, in Ruai, Kenya

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      2016 Lenten Bread and Soup Suppers

      By Naomi Corera, February 13, 2016

      All are invited to our Lenten bread and soup suppers, Friday March 4, 11, and 18, 5:30p, at St. Thomas Parish Hall. Come learn what it means to give less for yourself, so there is more for others. Questions? Contact Naomi at naomicwe@gmail.com. God bless you!
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      “Jonathan’s Story” featured on U-M Health System’s YouTube

      By Naomi Corera, December 7, 2015

      “It all started with a balloon….” University of Michigan Health System has produced a series of four videos about our dear friend Jonathan, who recently traveled from Uganda to Ann Arbor for a life-changing surgery that would not have been possible without the generosity and skill of the incredible physicians at UMHS. We are so grateful for this tremendous gift they gave to Jonathan, to restore his dignity and hope. Thank you!

      Full video:

      Part 1:

      Part 2:

      Part 3:

      Part 4:

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      You are invited! Are you ready to give up a gift and give a gift to a poor child?

      By Naomi Corera, December 5, 2015

      Dear Friends, bring your family and join us as we aim to keep Christ in the seasons of Advent and Christmas. Amidst the deluge of commercialism bombarding us, let it not eclipse the true meaning of the Christ Child’s birth in a poor, lowly stable. Let us be the light who brings hope to poor families.

      Saturday, December 19th, 5-7p
      St. Thomas Parish Hall
      Come join us after at 5p or after the 4:30p Mass. All are invited, the young, elderly, and all in between.

      Before we begin the season of indulging in delicious foods and big presents, let us pause and eat a simple meal of rice and beans with family and friends, and share in the simplicity of our brothers and sisters in Africa who eat this daily.

      Your gift of a free will donation will help a child and a family with the basic needs of water, shelter, and education.

      “Let the children come to Jesus through their poverty.” Children are invited to come dressed as poor shepherds. Please bring a plate of cookies to share.

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      This Christmas, Give to Change Lives

      By Naomi Corera, November 30, 2015

      As we prepare for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and the re-acceptance of Jesus into our hearts as the center of our lives, we have opportunities to be self-giving for our neighbors at home and abroad. This Christmas, consider giving towards or asking for specific ways to help the children who are waiting everywhere, particularly our brothers and sisters in Kenya and Uganda. Here are some of the items that would be life-changing for families and students. Would you consider being more selfless this Christmas and giving one of these items?

      • One day-old chick plus feed for seven months, when the chicken will be mature and laying eggs ($5)
      • One month of primary school ($20)
      • One month of high school ($50)
      • One month for a high school student’s tuition and boarding fees ($60)
      • One goat ($100)
      • One pig ($100)
      • A new Singer sewing machine to help mothers do business to pay their own school fees for their children ($100)
      • A new laptop for a university student in Kenya or Uganda ($250)
      • One year for a high school student’s tuition and boarding fees ($600)
      • One dairy cow and a calf ($1,000)
      • One term for a university student’s tuition ($1,000)
      • One month for all of the salaries for the 25 teachers at John Patrick High School in Kamwenge district, Uganda ($1,000)

      You can make a gift today through the PayPal Donate button below and specify how you would like the gift used in the comments section. You can also mail checks to “Children Waiting Everywhere” at 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Dr., PO Box 416, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, and specify how you would like the gift used in the memo line. Children Waiting Everywhere is a 100% volunteer organization, so your contribution is maximized to help the children and families we support in Kenya, Uganda, and Sri Lanka. CWE registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and contributions are tax deductible.

      Thank you so much for your generosity!

       

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      Chicks at three weeks old

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      Chicks at six months, preparing to start laying eggs at seven months

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      2000 to 2015

      By Naomi Corera, November 24, 2015

      This year marks our anniversary of 15 years. This is our very first project in Mitiyana, Uganda, that I visited last week. The picture is of the name of their congregation, Our Lady of The Repatrix. The statue is of St. Noa, one of the 21 Ugandan Martyrs. The Pope is celebrating 50 years of their canonization next week in Uganda.
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      Jonathan home

      By Naomi Corera, November 23, 2015

      I was so happy to get to travel back to Uganda with Jonathan, his mother, and Sister Josephine. Everyone was so happy to see Jonathan. Thank you everyone for all of your prayers and support for helping Jonathan!

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      Thank you over and over again

      By Naomi Corera, November 12, 2015

      The first picture is not too clear, but Jonathan thanked Dr. Marci Lesperance and her husband today at an appreciation tea party at Mott Hospital. It was because of Dr. Leasperance’s love and care as a mother that she accepted Jonathan’s case and submitted the application to Mott Hospital. We are so grateful to her for all her support and assistance to make this happen. Hooray! Cheers to Dr. Marci Lesperance, and we will forever remember and be grateful to you!IMG_5982

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      Jonathan’s last visit to Mott before returning home

      By Naomi Corera, November 11, 2015

      Today Jonathan made one last visit to Mott Children’s Hospital. He exchanged phone numbers with the physician and gave one last hug of gratefulness for giving him hope and a new life. Jonathan, his mother, and Sister Josephine return to Uganda on Saturday. We have been so blessed by Jonathan, his joy, and the generosity of the doctors and everyone who has made this possible!
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      Sister Rose sends greetings and gratitude from her parents

      By Naomi Corera,

      Sister Rose in Uganda asked me if CWE would provide goats for her aged parents to be able to milk and have a bit of income in their old age. CWE provided them with two goats in February 2015. Just this month, Sister Rose reported that the two goats have given birth to two more goats! Her parents are so happy to have “kids” in their old age!
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      Jonathan returning home after successful surgery and recovery!

      By Naomi Corera, November 6, 2015

       

       

      Jonathan has enjoyed a tremendous stay at the Mott Children’s Hospital at UMHS. He is returning home now after the successful life-changing surgery to remove the huge tumor from his neck. Thank you all so much for your prayers and support for Jonathan!

       

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      If you recall, this is the spot where we commemorated the letter of approval for Jonathan’s surgery, back in August!

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      Jonathan continues to recover very well!

      By Naomi Corera, November 2, 2015

      Jonathan is enjoying his time at UMHS and he is recovering well. Thank you all for your continued prayers!

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      Peaceful recovery for Jonathan

      By Naomi Corera, October 31, 2015

      Jonathan has been receiving the best of care at UMHS while he recovers from Thursday’s surgery to remove the tumor. Thanks be to God and to all of the wonderful people who are helping Jonathan!

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      Fundraising for van for Sisters at Jonathan’s home

      By Naomi Corera, October 24, 2015

      The Cheshire Home for Children with Disabilities, in Kampala, Uganda, is where I met our friend Jonathan, who is now in Michigan for surgery to remove the tumor on his neck. The Home for Children with Disabilities is run by the Good Samaritan Sisters. Earlier this year, I learned from the Good Samaritan Sisters that one of their many challenges is the lack of a vehicle to transport sick children to the hospital at nighttime. When I asked why they were not able to do that, Stephen (the daytime driver) told me, “I have a wife and children and I, like the other drivers, will not risk my life driving here at night.” You see, nighttime driving in Uganda can be very dangerous, with risks of roadside robbery or worse. When there is an emergency with the children at the home, though, the Sisters (who are very brave women indeed!) cannot wait until the next day. With the Sisters request for their own van, I realized then that if the Sisters had their own vehicle they could drive themselves to the hospital with the sick children, thus making themselves independent of a nighttime driver. I went to the shop and we priced a secondhand Toyota “Noah” van, with room for a child in a wheelchair, for $6,000.

      On Tuesday, 13 October 2015, in conjunction with Jonathan’s visit, we had a sale of African crafts at Dominos Lobby. By the grace of God we raised $3,000! Now we are raising the balance of $3,000 for the vehicle. We believe that once again, God will provide this through generous friends.

      Please consider this need in helping the sisters to serve the children in their home with disabilities. If you would like to give, please visit http://childrenwaitingeverywhere.org/makeagift/. You can put in the memo line on the check or the PayPal form “Van for childens’ home”. God Bless you all!

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      The van picked out by the Sisters for taking the children to the hospital. It has room for a child in a wheelchair.

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      Children at the home run by the Good Samaritan Sisters. Jonathan is near the middle.

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      Jonathan with another children at the Home for Children with Disabilities

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      Jonathan’s biopsy went well

      By Naomi Corera, October 22, 2015

      Hello, dear friends! Our friend Jonathan has been receiving world-class care at UMHS, and we have great news to share. His biopsy went well and the the surgery for possible removal of the growth sometime next week! Please continue to keep him in your prayers. God Bless you all for your prayers.He never Fails us!
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      Jonathan and his mother say thank you for your prayers!
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      Announcing our “10/10” campaign!

      By Naomi Corera, October 14, 2015

      Just $10 from a new friend of CWE will help us reach our goal of $50,000 by August 2016. Won’t you join us and invite your family, friends, and coworkers, too?

      In October, 2015, Children Waiting Everywhere will celebrate 15 years of ministry to God’s children in Uganda, Kenya, and Sri Lanka. We praise and thank God for guiding us through these many years, and we are so grateful to our friends, who over these many years have so faithfully helped us sustain the schools, health centers, families, and other individually-sponsored students in high schools and universities!

      We are now seeking many new friends to hold hands with us as we go forward to care for more children waiting to be served. To celebrate the 15th anniversary of service to the children, we are launching a “10/10” campaign. Starting on Oct. 10 (10/10), we invite you to join us with your donation of just $10. We hope to raise $50,000 within the next 10 months to expand the facilities of the Padre Pio Health Center for Women & Babies in Fort Portal, Uganda.

      Please join hands with us as we go forth to serve.

      Make a donation today!
      You can make checks to “Children Waiting Everywhere” and mail them to us (24 Frank Lloyd Wright Dr., PO Box 416, Ann Arbor, MI 48105), or you can use the “Donate” button below to make a secure donation through PayPal.

      Current progress is $50 of $50,000 (updated 12 Oct 2015):

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      Jonathan’s first visit to UMHS

      By Naomi Corera, October 13, 2015

      Today Jonathan visited the wonderful doctors at University of Michigan Hospital. Here are photos!
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      Jonathan visits fire station and goes apple picking

      By Naomi Corera, October 12, 2015

      Little Jonathan is having a blast during his time in America, even before his surgery! Today Jonathan visited the Scio Township fire station and also went apple picking. Tomorrow, Tuesday 13 October 2015, there will be a sale of African crafts to benefit Jonathan at Dominos Lobby C by the bookstore, 8a-1p. Thank you all for the warm welcome for Jonathan to Michigan!

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      Jonathan has arrived!

      By Naomi Corera,

      On Thursday, October 8, Jonathan arrived from Uganda with his mother and Sister Josephina. He is such a joyful child and he is thrilled to be in America to have the tumor on his neck removed. If you haven’t been following our posts about Jonathan, you can read more about him at these posts:

       

       

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      Anticipating Jonathan’s surgery on October 21!

      By Naomi Corera, September 29, 2015

      I first met three year old Jonathan while handing out balloons at the Children’s Home (for children with disabilities) run by the Good Samaritan Sisters in Kampala, Uganda. The large tumor draped around his neck caught my eye and so I inquired from Sr. Josephine about Jonathan. She told me that they had just been informed by the doctors in Uganda that they were too afraid to operate the large tumor, fearing for his life. Hence, Jonathan and his parents were to return back to the village the next day without having received surgery to remove the tumor. I felt very sad upon hearing the story and so I brought back with me all the x-rays and reports that Sister had with her from the doctors in Uganda.

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      Back in the U.S., I showed the x-rays to my two friends, one a radiologist and another an ENT surgeon. Both agreed that it looked like a benign tumor that could easily be removed before it continued to grow even larger. So with their help, we made a formal request to the U of M Hospital to use the facilities free of charge for Jonathan’s surgery. After a couple of months of waiting in anticipation, we received the good news that from among many other requests to UMHS Children’s Hospital, Jonathan’s request was the one granted. Praise God for that! It truly was a miracle!

      Now, my next challenge was finding the funds for three airplane tickets: one for Jonathan, one for his mother, and one for Sister Josephine. That too was taken care of by the Blessed Mother and Mother Teresa, with whom we prayed and received such a generous gift from a family to pay for the tickets. Trusting in God’s providence, all our needs are met.

      So now we excitedly await Jonathan’s arrival in Michigan, together with his mother and Sister Josephine, on Thursday, October 8. Many friends have offered to keep the family and others have given us invitations for supper! We continue to pray for his surgery on Wednesday, October 21, and his full recovery afterwards!

      Thank you Lord for your Marvelous deeds!

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      Magda receives scholarship for nursing program in Finland

      By Naomi Corera,

      Magda was first brought to my attention by her sister Lilian in Ruai, Kenya, who was working for Little Flower School by helping us with our accounting. Lilian told me that Magda, even though had been accepted to university, was just at home hoping and praying that some kind donor would pay her school fees. So I asked to see Magda, who then took the night bus and traveled ten hours overnight to meet me. One could not tell that she had not slept all night and had traveled in the rickety bus on roads filled with pot holes. She was so excited to meet me full of laughter and joy knowing her dream of becoming a  nurse specializing in cardiology and nephrology may just becoming a reality!

      We have continued to fund Magda’s school fees and personal expenses like food and shelter as she had to move to the big city and leave her parents and family in the village. Magda just received her grades from her third year at university, and she pass with “flying colours,” as they say in Kenya. As Magda continues to study hard and persevere, she has been blessed with another windfall just this past week. The dean of students informed her that she was chosen for a special scholarship for a three month course in Oulu University in Finland! They advised her to wait until May to begin her course in Finland, to evade the cold winter that would be unseasonal for her. All of Magda’s academic and personal expenses will be paid except for the plane ticket of $1,500.

      Of course, I know God will take care of that, too, through some kind and generous donor and friend of CWE. Could this person be you? Magda is looking forward to her three month program in Finland in summer 2016, her graduation in December 2016 from Kenya, and her master’s degree for nursing to follow. We wish her all the best and are so proud of her hard work. Once she is a nurse, Magda is eager to pay it forward to another needy student, in gratitude for what was given to her.

      Magda was eager to share her gratitude with me, too:

      “Dear beloved mum and all well-wishers, going to Finland would totally be of importance to me because it will enhance my practical skills and knowledge in nursing. The main reason will be to learn more on cardiology and nephrology conditions, their management, and the equipment used in their management. This is the entrance to my future career. This department is not in our school and it’s very rare to get such an opportunity to learn. Learning it through such an opportunity will be my pleasure. I love you and always pray Almighty God to bless you abundantly as well as give your mother strength at her old age. To all the well-wishers and donors, I pray they also be blessed and have God’s favour in their lives. Love you all.”

      Magda carrying water-in the village. She had been accepted into the university but had no one to pay her school fees for university.

      Magda carrying water-in the village. She had been accepted into the university but had no one to pay her school fees for university.

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      Magda at the university in Kenya

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      Magda at her university in Kenya.

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      Official letter received for Jonathan

      By Naomi Corera, August 24, 2015

      Hooray! This afternoon at 12:35 to be exact we received the much-sought-after letter of approval form the U of M! I learned that there were so many applicants and it was narrowed down to 4! Then came the difficult task of choosing just one! Once again the power of prayer and the intercession of Mother Mary came through and our Little Jonathan was the chosen one! Praise God!

      This letter will go from Father George to Sister Josephine, who will take it to the U.S. Embassy. We are now busy making plans to raise the funds for the plane tickets! We fully believe and trust the Good Lord will once again provide for this as well.

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      Jonathan approved for surgery at U-M

      By Naomi Corera, August 22, 2015

      Hooray, we have been approved! Thanks to prayers from Our Blessed Mother Mary, 3 year old Jonathan of Uganda has been approved for surgery to remove a debilitating tumor, at U-M Hospital in October 2015.

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      Families empowered in Kenya – more from July 2015 visit

      By Naomi Corera, August 18, 2015

      Here are a few more updates from my most recent visit to Kenya.

      Rachel’s cattle

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      This is Rachel, the cook in the convent. A very hardworking lady. She is all excited to have the two cows from CWE – and both cows were pregnant just like her. She told me, “I hope it is a girl! I will name her Naomi!” But unfortunately and sadly, she called me last week to inform me that they baby was still born.

      But she happily and gratefully reported that all expenses for the hospital was paid for by selling the cows’ milk. She was ever so grateful that she did not have to request any funds from CWE. Now she eagerly awaits the birth of the calves, which will help her to bring in more income for her family of three.

      Mercy and her piglets

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      Oh boy! Does this mama pig need her rest! After continuously feeding ten piglets with voracious appetites! Happy are teacher Mercy, her husband, and their three children. It is a family business. All help to take care of “Naomi’s pig project,” as they call it. It is becoming a big business for them and they hope to add more pigs soon.

      “It is hard work to get it going, but after that one can relax a bit and bring in the funds,” says Mercy with a smile.

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      With a grateful heart they presented me with a bunch of bananas. I received it with all of YOU in my heart! I was so happy to meet Lilian’s family. It was an eight hour journey not only to meet her family but also to see the cows that CWE had purchased for them.

      We were so tired and hungry, it was late evening by the time we reached their humble dwelling place. But the joy and welcome we received clearly took away my tiredness and I was delighted to meet them and be treated to a delicious meal of many Kenyan delights. After the meal, we went off to see the cows in the backyard. The cows looked healthy and well cared for. The old couple, Teresa and Charles, happily shared the news that they now supply milk to the local school. This gave them a sense of pride that now they pay their own school fees for their seven children. Of course, we prayed for all our kind donors who made this possible.

      Rosaries for the Children

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      Naomi spreading the message of the Holy Rosary. These Rosaries were made by the friends of the Missionaries of the Holy Family in Lansing, Michigan, to the children in Ruai, Kenya.

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      Thoughts on my most recent trip to Kenya

      By Naomi Corera, July 19, 2015

      I have just returned from Kenya and would like to share some thoughts with you and give you an update on our work there.

      Returning back to the US is much more than getting over the jet lag. It is all about leaving my brothers and sisters behind in the real world of struggles and hardships and returning home to my comfortable life, filled with God’s blessings. My long flight home gives me time to reflect while being served the many choices and brands of soda, spirits and yes—many bottles of water!

      I wonder why I am so happy even though I have foregone many of the comforts of home like flushing toilets, running water, electricity, and of course the snacks between my meals.

      Children begging me to get them a sponsor to pay their school fees. They know that education and knowledge is the only way out of their misery. Mothers struggling to put Ugali (corn meal) and greens on the table to feed the many hungry mouths. Often the mother goes without a meal or two in order to satisfy the little ones. Seeing the children trek a long distance, many times a day just to fetch a bucket of water. I stop and count the many faucets I have in my house. Seeing the students big and little all sitting attentively in neat rows on benches without a tug or push – yes, they know education is the only way out to a better tomorrow. Oh, by the way – where do they sleep and on what? Visiting them in their homes – the children sleeping on torn foam pads on the floor sleeping across to accommodate the whole family, while the mosquitoes provide the annoying buzzing around their ears. Just that sight alone keeps me from dozing off on the plane under my cozy blanket.

      On the other hand, what have I learned from them these past 2 weeks?

      One thing for sure: their undying trust in the Good Lord. They have planted with hope but the rains have failed to come. The cows have no grass, their supply of water has gone dry, the heat is intense, yet I never heard a word of despair, the traffic jam is impossible as it comes to a complete stop, as each one, pedestrians, motorists and cart handlers all try to weave their way through any opening in sight, cutting in front of one another. I just close my eyes and pray that I will get to my destination alive. Yet I never saw or heard a road rage. Where does all this patience and joy come from? Yes, it is from then Lord. “The Joy of the Lord is my strength.” This was truly apparent among my struggling brothers and sisters in Kenya. The radio blared out the voice of their president Kenyatta over and over again — as Kenya gets ready to welcome our President Obama – “We are a Christian nation. We believe in Christ and the words of the Bible. Marriage is between one man and one woman. Let America practice what they want but keep it there. Please, Mr. Obama, do not bring it here.” Already protests and marches were on the streets holding banners, supporting marriage only between a man and a woman.

      So as I further pondered and questioned myself. What have we gained as the powerful nation, so richly Blessed in abundance, so advanced in science and technology – or should I say what have we lost — much, I concluded. So before I nod off to sleep, I conclude that my brothers and sisters in Africa are Richly Blessed too, not with material wealth but with FAITH and much JOY! I bring that back home to share with you. They too have a lot to share with us!

      So let’s Live Simply so others may Simply Live! Let’s together share our blessing with others. Won’t you join us?

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      Thank you, Spiritus Sanctus Academy Plymouth!

      By Naomi Corera, May 29, 2015

      It was a lovely event at Spiritus Sanctus Academy last afternoon! The students were so excited to see a volleyball tournament between the teachers and the 8th graders. The students made donations for a dress down day, and all proceeds went to Children Waiting Everywhere. Many of the students were past students of Naomi Corera – even the school’s physical education teacher and athletic director was a kindergarten student of Naomi!

      The excitement and the loud cheering of the students was so energizing. I was very touched that these young students are aware of the needs of other children around the globe and give thanks to God for their blessings so they can share with those who have less. It’s moving to see young students giving their support for other students’ education. I am truly grateful to the students and Sister Maria Faustina for this gift of $500 from the school to pay school fees for our students in Uganda.

      School fees for Maria Goretti and Judith

      The funds from the students will go towards school fees for Maria Goretti and Judith, two high school students in Uganda. Maria Goretti attends Maria Goretti High School in Fort Portal Uganda. Judith attends high School in Kampala in Uganda. Both students are totally dependent on Children Waiting Everywhere for their school fees and will be very grateful to the students for their care and support to them!

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      Photos from the game

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      Photo credit: Linas Orentas

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      Sr. Maria Faustina, Principal of Spiritus Sanctus Academy Plymouth, and Naomi Corera. Photo credit: Linas Orentas

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      Fr. Nicholas Sseggobe, Chaplain. Photo credit: Linas Orentas

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      Tommy the Tiger, mascot for the teachers. Photo credit: Linas Orentas

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      10 piglets born, going toward school fees in Ruai, Kenya

      By Naomi Corera, May 19, 2015

      Oink, oink is all over Mercy Karis’ backyard! One of the two mama pigs has given birth to 10 piglets. Wow! This means lots of money to pay the school fees for this term and still some left over for a treat. This birth cycle will repeat itself in another 4 months with the other mama pig, giving this mama a rest. Oh boy, she will need it too! 

      This is our second profit-making sustainable project being realized, and encourages us to give a helping hand to other waiting families as well. Now we wait for God’s providence to buy chickens for three other families as they have built their chicken coop and await the funds to buy 300 chickens.

      I first met 38 year old Mercy Karis at Little Flower Nursery school a few years ago where she works as a teacher. She told me that since their salaries barely help her and her husband to raise their 3 children 10, 8, and 6 – who attend St. James Catholic school in Nairobi – to pay for their school fees  they raise pigs to supplement their income. The next time I met her again in 2014 she asked me the favor of financial help to add on to their piggery project – which she and her husband take turns to manage. He does the day shift and she does the evening shift as he goes to the university for classes. Just another sow and addition to a pig sty and food for 4 months, she explained, will greatly help to increase their monthly income to $600 every 4 months. The pigs have to be well-fed in order to produce healthy piglets that will survive. The idea excited me. So with the help of generous donors, we gave her $1,000 in March, 2014. Today the first mama has given birth to 10 piglets – “produced 10 babies” as they say it in Africa! I can hardly wait for my next trip to Ruai, Kenya, not only to see the mama and the piglets but also taste some delicious African pork dishes! The Africans do enjoy a delicious pork barbecue! Today Maris and her husband Paul are overjoyed to be financially stable and have an income producing project. All the hard work done with their own hands and the sweat of their brow. It pleases them not to continue to depend on donors although they are so grateful for the helping hand to get started.

      Other such families are waiting too. If you are able to help, please contact us and together we can experience the joy of giving.

       

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      Good news from Africa on empowerment projects

      By Naomi Corera, May 6, 2015

      Dairy cattle farming in Ruai, Kenya

       

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      Lilian writes:

      “I wish to thank you for your kind consideration. I am an employee of St. Joseph primary school as a secretary. My parents are peasant farmers who are advancing in age. I am the first born of six sisters and one brother working and earning very little that can’t even sustain me as a single person but by the grace of God and  managing  with your help, I  hope to go an extra mile.”

      I first met 25 year old Lilian 6 years ago at our  Little Flower Nursery School where she worked as a volunteer assisting us with the school accounts. I was so touched by her generosity-that I wanted to get to know her better. She told me that she had a sister Magda who even though had been accepted to the university to become a registered nurse had no funds to attend university. Today through generous donors CWE is helping Magda and in December 2016 she will graduate as a Registered Nurse. She hopes to continue her studies to become a cardiologist!

      Next when she requested school fees for the other 4   siblings-that is when we both came upon the plan of  a sustainable project to assist them in working and paying their own school fees. Now we are looking into a Bio Gas Program that will assist them with obtaining their own gas through the use of the cow dung. Lilian also has rented the adjoining field to grow the special grass to feed the cows so that in 4 months they will not have to buy feed for the cows.

      It is such a wonderful.experience for both CWE and such families who are helped with a bit of capital to know that they too can be a part of the solution to their own self sufficiency.  If you too would like to be part of this life -giving projects please consider sending us a financial gift to empower other waiting families.

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      Photos of the construction of the cattle shed.

       

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      Pigs for Mercy Karis and her family

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      Dormitory construction in Kamwenge District, Uganda

      With great excitement we have begun the long awaited and needed construction of our girls dormitory at our John/Patrick Secondary School.

      Starting the construction now in May–that alone is a miracle. As this time of year is the ” dry period” as I call it. As we receive no funds till November. But by God’s providence we were granted the start- up funds by a generous donor who sent us the funds in the name of his deceased father. Then another very generous friend matched the funds to make the dormitory possible and so the construction has begun! We hope to complete the building by September if all goes well. Praise God!

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      Empowering families in Kenya

      By Naomi Corera, April 21, 2015

      Three more chicken coops are just completed and are ready for the chickens. These families have been attending weekly workshops and gathering the materials to build their own chicken coops. After a careful inspection by the government authorities and approval of their structures, CWE gives them the capital to buy 200 chickens and feed for six months. The hens each lay one egg per day on average for about 200 eggs per day. The eggs are sold to supplement the family income, especially to pay the much needed school fees. Continued monitoring will take place to provide advice and to oversee the project for complete success!

      If you would like to contribute to this self-sustaining project for empowering families in Kenya, please send checks to our address at the bottom of this page. Thank you for all of your amazing support of Children Waiting Everywhere!

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      Photos and Videos from 2015 Bread and Soup

      By Naomi Corera, March 2, 2015

      Dear friends, this Lent while we are living simply so that others may simply live, I am excited to share about all that your kindness has been able to accomplish in the past year, as well as the vision for CWE looking ahead in 2015 and beyond. We have three more Bread and Soup suppers remaining in Lent: March 6, 13, and 20.

      Welcome message from Naomi

       

      House dedication and singing – Ruai, Kenya; Clinic grand opening – Moumni, Uganda

       

      Little Flower School prayers, “As I kneel before the Lord,” and Rosaries

       

      CWE 2015 photo slideshow

       

      “Thank you for your generosity”

       

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      “Thank you for your generosity!”

      By Naomi Corera, February 26, 2015

      Three friends of CWE – two in Ruai, Kenya, and one in Mukono, Uganda – took the chance to tell their friends from CWE thank you for what has been given to them. This 3 minute video was taken during my trip Feb 7-22 in both Kenya and Uganda. Please watch to hear what our friends have to say to thank you!

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      Empowering Our Brothers and Sisters

      By Naomi Corera, February 24, 2015

      Since the first visit in 2000, Children Waiting Everywhere has been fortunate to be able to empower children, students, women, religious sisters, single mothers, and families. Here are just a handful of the most recent stories of empowerment that have been through the supporters of CWE.

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      February 2015 visit to Kenya and Uganda

      By Naomi Corera, February 22, 2015

      Dear friends, I go. I see. I experience the pain. And now I come back to express to you what I saw, what I experienced, and what was gained by your generosity to improve the life of these people each day.

      I was very excited to leave on February 7, 2015, to see our new accomplishments that had undertaken in the most recent months. First I stopped in Kenya, and then I went to Uganda. At each stop I have the gift of seeing the fruit of your generosity, such as ribbon cuttings for new homes and clinics, but really I am only a messenger of the people’s needs and a steward for your generosity to provide for their needs. Here is a recap of the projects from this trip. It always seems like such a short and packed time when I am there, and then I return with more motivation to keep serving for our brothers and sisters who are waiting everywhere.

      Peter’s new home in Ruai, Kenya

      Remember last year how moved I was with the desire to help Peter, the driver for Little Flower School in Ruai, when I saw his old home and how devoted he is to his family. So this year on my first day in Kenya I went to celebrate the ribbon cutting for Peter’s new home. It was an exciting day for Peter. In fact, Peter said he was so excited that his teeth might fall out. So I told him, “Peter, if your teeth fall out, just don’t swallow them.” We even bought him a new shirt and pair of trousers so he looked really elegant and smart on that proud day for him. There he was with his new shirt and trousers, his immediate family and some of his extended family and all the little children that he serves so lovingly and caringly everyday. They were as excited if not more excited than Peter for the new house for Peter’s family.

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      Peter, the van driver for Little Flower School, with his new pair of trousers and shirt, ready to celebrate the ribbon cutting for his family’s new home.

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      The students and Sisters of Little Flower School came to celebrate with Peter and his family.

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      Myself as videographer.

       

      It was a beautiful, bright morning. The children sang God’s praises in thanksgiving and then got to tour the four-bedroom house. Father Louis, a missionary priest from Indonesia, blessed the house. The children entered the house singing, “This is the house, this is the house that the Lord has made.”

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      Father Louis was so joyful to meet Peter’s youngest child, who is also named Louis.

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      Sister Especiosa, the head teacher at Little Flower, cutting the ribbon to the home.

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      The children with the new Rosaries. I took 1,000 Rosaries with me on this trip.

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      Father Louis (center), his deacon, and Peter’s wife.

       

      There was a very nice extra gift for Peter and his family, a set of Rosaries for each of them. Peter assured me that if I ever need an office in Nairobi, his home is available for me.

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      Peter and his family unwrapping their special new Rosaries.

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      Peter with his Rosary.

       

      Green Estates Homes reblessing

      Also, while I was in Ruai, Father Louis was kind enough to re-bless the Green Estates homes. Although it’s been three years since CWE was able to build these homes, it was wonderful to finally be here for a blessing of the homes.

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      Father Louis and one of the widowed mothers who lives in the Green Estates homes that CWE built three years ago.

       

      The chickens and the eggs

      This is a very interesting project in Ruai. Just next door to Peter’s new home is a different Peter and his wife Rose. They had asked me for school fees for their son. Instead of providing their school fees, though, I proposed that CWE provide the startup capital for a modest sized chicken and egg business. Now they are the talk of the town, with 600 chickens total – 300 actively laying eggs, and 300 chicks growing and readying to replace the current 300 egg layers. They presented me with several of the eggs. See their house now – it is a nice house – and now they are paying school fees for two children, not just one, with the 300 eggs per day from the hens. Peter quit his day job and cares for the chickens full time. He was eager to tell me the story of on the day that the sisters gave news to his wife Rose about the startup funds for these chickens, on December 1, 2014. Rose came home and was so excited that she was speechless with joy about the startup funds arriving.

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      A different Peter, not the school van driver, and his wife Rose with their chicken operation.

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      Peter and Rose presented me with eggs from their chickens. With the chickens, they are able to pay school fees for not one but two of their children, and Peter quit his day job to focus on the chickens.

       

      St. Martin’s Health Clinic in Mukono, Uganda

      After a very exciting first day in Keyna, I took the half-hour flight to Kampala and then the half-hour drive to Mukono, Uganda, for the ribbon cutting of the St. Martin’s Health Clinic. The man in charge of this project is Anthony “Tembo,” who is serving as the head clinicial officer here and would be comparable to a physician’s assistant in training relative to the U.S. medical system. Tembo was able to acquire the property of a failed shopping mall, with the help of CWE, and establish this small town clinic. Mainly the cases here are for outpatient services, basic dental care, counseling, and even a small pharmacy. There were already patients in the reception room and one receiving care by the morning.

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      The exterior of St. Martin’s clinic.

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      Anthony “Tembo”, the clinical officer who started and leads the clinic.

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      One of the first patients to receive care at the clinic.

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      The nurse is assessing the test.

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      The clinic’s small pharmacy.

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      Tembo writing a prescription.

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      Tembo, the clinical officer, and his two nurses, one of whom is his sister Teresa.

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      The first handful of patients at the clinic on opening day, waiting in the reception room.

      The namesake of this clinic is a nod to Tembo’s brother, Martin, who was abducted by rebels at the age of seventeen and was never found again. Tembo’s parents were able to come, and Tembo’s brother is the priest, Fr. Augustine. Fr. Augustine studied in Rome and wrote his thesis on Catholic radio. A stranger read his thesis and then provided him the funds to start the local Catholic radio station in Kampala, Uganda, called Kasese Guide Radio. One of Tembo’s sister Teresa is a nurse, and she’ll be working in the clinic alongside Tembo. Tembo’s other sister is a nun, Sister Judith.

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      Tembo’s mother and father to my left, and Judith to my right.

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      The church’s choir came to celebrate the clinic’s opening, too.

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      Tembo’s parents, and his brother Father Augustine behind them.

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      Father Augustine blessing the clinic.

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      I was delighted to receive this dress as a gift!

      Father Augustine went around the clinic blessing the facility. The family even made me a special dress for the occasion – it fit perfectly! For this clinic, CWE was able to provide the funds to purchase all of the equipment for the facility. It was very apparent that the father of this family –the father of Tembo, Fr. Augustine, nurse Teresa, and Sister Judith – is a very holy man, and his children said that they had never seen their father as happy as he was today.

      Water for the convent in Uganda

      The sisters always give so much hospitality and an incredibly welcoming spirit. They were so happy for their running water and water heater for the shower. It was a joy to get to stay with them. There is a maternity clinic nearby this is also getting a large running water project. The sisters were finally able to wash their dishes right inside their house!

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      My arrival to the convent with the sisters so joyful to see me.

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      The sister’s new water heater and shower.

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      The sisters and their new water tank.

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      The pressurizing tank at the convent.

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      I am so blessed by the joy from these women!

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      Washing clothes inside the convent used to be only a dream for them.

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      Washing dishes inside the convent is also an incredible gift!

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      I got an umbrella for Sister Apollo, who is 85 years old.

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      Sister Apollo.

      Rweibale maternity clinic

      Thanks to a generous U-M doctor, the maternity clinic will be getting running water and has been gifted with a baby warmer as well as an incubator for preemie babies.

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      The sisters arriving at the maternity clinic.

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      The new baby warmer at the maternity clinic.

       

      Kyakatara projects: toothbrushes, Holy Spirit School, empowerment group

      My dentist Lucas gave me toothbrushes to give the children. They left their toothbrushes in the classroom here, but had their pencils to show.

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      We were able to provide Bibles for Holy Spirit School, by the request of one of the teachers, Ms. Rosemary.

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      Ms. Rosemary, the teacher at Holy Spirit School who asked me for Bibles, here with new Bibles for each class.

       

      Here we have also started a microfinancing group modeled after the internationally successful SACAs. We are calling this particular group “Divine Mercy” group. The concept is a small association that meets monthly, pools together a small amount of cash from each person, and draws the person from a hat for whom the pool will go as startup funds. The goal is accountability for savings, investment, and microfinancing.

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      The new “Divine Mercy” SACA microfinancing group.

       

      John Patrick School

      Here I was able to speak with the students about the importance of working hard with their studies and staying true to the right path morally. The top student from last year’s S6 class at John Patrick, Aloysius, was especially convincing for his peers to do their best and work hard. After his talk, I was so happy to provide Aloysius with a laptop to take with him for his university studies starting in April.

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      Meeting with the high school students at John Patrick School.

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      Aloysius, the top student from last year, motivating the students to work hard.

       

      The water project at John Patrick continues. Water was not found on the school property, but was found on a neighbor’s property. All of the trenches must be dug by hand – intense physical labor.

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      The pressurizing water tank has been installed.

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      All of the trenches must be dug by hand. This pipe carries the water from the bore hole to the tank.

      Photo video from the trip

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      Goals for upcoming Africa visit

      By Naomi Corera, February 3, 2015

      Next week on the first Saturday of the month, I will be traveling to Kenya and Uganda. I am once again going for accountability for all the generous gifts that I received during the Christmas season.

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      First I will stop in Ruai, Kenya, to see first hand the advancement of Peter’s new house. How exciting it must be for him, his wife and 5 children to see the building of their new home coming up brick by brick. Yes, it would be a very humble, modest house compared to yours and mine – but to this family it will be home – a palace, compared to the shack that the children were born in. It will have three bedrooms, a kitchen, and living room and a small eating area. On the outside it will have the toilets and a small kitchen. We even have been able to provide funds for a table and chairs. Although we had some delay in getting the project started, I have urged the builders to please get it finished as soon as possible for me to see the completed house.

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      The physician for the upcoming St. Martin’s Health Clinic in Uganda.

       

      Then off to Kampala, Uganda, for the opening of the St. Martin’s Health Clinic on the 11th of February, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. This will be a simple clinic where malaria and the common flu can be treated and also HIV will be tested. The parents of Anthony and Sister Judith will cut the ribbon to open the clinic. I know that will be a heart-warming ceremony to experience. There will lots of singing, drumming, dancing, and gratitude.

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      The parents of Anthony and Sister Judith, who will cut the ribbon for the new St. Martin Health Clinic in Kampala, Uganda.

       

      Next stop at Kyakatara, Uganda, to visit the indoor water plumbing for the Sisters who work at the Holy Spirit School and Divine Mercy Clinic. Wow! I can hardly wait to take an indoor bath and wash the dishes indoors! What a blessing for them!

      Then I will keep moving six hours to the west to Fort Portal, Uganda, to see our new water borehole and computer lab at our John/Patrick Secondary school. Our former student will be surprised when I present to him the surprise of his studying career—a laptop computer! That will be a big boost to him as he gets ready next year to enter Makerere University in Kampala. He is determined to persevere and succeed in becoming a medical doctor!

      Yes as I go, – despite my own challenges in taking this trip – I carry each and everyone of you in my heart and present you to the dear people, our brothers and sisters there. They are so grateful to you for being their friend even without having met them. It is as though they know you through me and the kind stories I relate to them about your kindness and generosity towards them. Through you, the Lord has provided for them. Once again, by working together great things are accomplished for God and His people!

      On my return I will be very busy getting the video and pictures ready for the Lenten Bread and Soup Suppers. So hope to see you there to hear the rest of the story!

      God bless you,

      Naomi

       

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      Lent 2015: “Live Simply So Others May Simply Live”

      By Naomi Corera, January 27, 2015

      Starting on Friday, February 27, and continuing for the following three Fridays, Children Waiting Everywhere is hosting a meager meal of bread and soup at 5:30p at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in the Parish Hall. The meal and presentation will end in time for everyone to attend Stations of the Cross at 7p. Free will donations will be accepted and you are encouraged to offer up what you would have spent on a meal yourself. Thanks to generous donations and volunteers for our bread and soup suppers, all proceeds go to Children Waiting Everywhere. Thank you so much!

      The Bread and Soup suppers will be held on the following days, all 5:30-7p in the Parish Hall at St. Thomas Apostle Church, 530 Elizabeth Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104:

      • Friday, February 27, 2015
      • Friday, March 6, 2015
      • Friday, March 13, 2015
      • Friday, March 20, 2015

      Are you ready to give up just one meal on Friday, so that others can eat corn and beans every day?

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      Little Flower Nursery in Kenya

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      Holy Spirit Primary School in Uganda

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      John Patrick Secondary School in Uganda

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      School children in Sri Lanka

       

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      Progress on Peter’s house

      By Naomi Corera, January 24, 2015

      After verifying Peter’s land title certificate, we were so happy to learn that he was indeed already the legal owner of the property section for his new home. So the process of the construction of the house has begun, and the foundation has been completed. Now we’re waiting for the walls of the house to be constructed. Since Peter and his family are living on the same premises as the new house, the whole family is excitedly watching as their new house takes shape. We are hoping and praying that by the end of January, Peter and his family  will be able to move into their much-awaited new house which now will be a warm home for them. My friends who gave them the funds to build Peter’s house have already entrusted me with 7 new Rosaries to take to Peter and his family. What a blessing it is to be able to provide this to Peter and his family after many years of waiting! And that’s what we’re all about: providing for children and families who are waiting everywhere.

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      Foundation for Peter’s new house

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      The lumber outside of Peter’s current house, awaiting construction

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      The foundation of Peter’s new house, in progress

       

       

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      Convent heated water accomplished

      By Naomi Corera, January 15, 2015

      After years of having to walk down to the stream to “fetch water,” the Sisters are just elated to now only have to flip a switch, not only to get water but to get hot, running water! They are so thankful that they called the donors directly on the telephone and sang and drummed for them. The donors in return told them they were so humbled that their donation had brought so much joy and given life to the Sisters. I wished they could have only been on Skype to have actually seen the dancing, but they were grateful to have heard the joy and dancing through singing and drumming. I can’t wait to go to the convent soon and experience the joy of taking a hot water shower in the bathroom (because I’ve been there many times before and experienced the hardships not only for myself but for the elderly Sisters who had to fetch their own water and heat it on cold rainy days and bring it back to the convent with only a hurricane lamp). Once again it has proven that water is life giving!

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      The shower head and water heater

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      The water heater switch

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      The newly-installed kitchen sink

       

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      Hooray…water at the convent!

      By Naomi Corera, December 16, 2014

      Wow, was I so thankful to the Lord! Just a few days after we put up the pictures on this website, one of my good friends called me and said, “Naomi, I would be glad to get plumbing for the Sisters and give the check for $5,000.” So now the six Sisters in the order – St. Therese the Little Flower in Fort Portal, Uganda – have flowing water in their convent!

      The Sisters were so happy to hear – I called them right away and told them that I had received the donation, because they had been praying hard for it. They immediately called my friend and they drummed and sang and were shouting for joy. My friend was so humbled in hearing that with this donation they had received so much life – the gift of water!

      The Sisters used to labor so much carrying buckets of water for a simple thing that we take for granted each day – taking a shower. Now, not only do the Sisters have running water for their shower, but also for their kitchen sink and their toilet (before, they would use buckets of water for everything, including filling up the tank on the toilet).

      Immediately the plumbers set out to work, because I had already sorted the plumbing job details to know how much the job would cost. So they were just waiting to get started.

      As you can see, everything must be done by hand. Here is the trench for the pipes and the hole for the tank. Now when I call the Sisters, they turn on the tap and hold the phone so I can hear the sink, and then run to the shower and do likewise. Just their delight of having water and their joy…it makes everything we do worthwhile!

      Digging hole for new water tank

      Digging the hole for the main water tank

      Not only did it give the Sisters water, but it gave these men work for a whole week. Their work is very good and incredibly fast, especially without all of the permits and red tape that we have in the United States. I was surprised that within just a handful of days they were sending me these pictures! They’re all good workers, it’s just that they don’t have work, so this was a blessing for them and their families, too.

      Digging water lines

      Plumbing the pipes to go right inside the bathroom

      The Sisters would always shower daily because at the end of the day, you can’t help but having lots of dust and grime  – you can feel the grit on your skin! So now their daily showers will be so much faster to open their time to their important work.

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      Sisters Agnes, Sister Especiosa, and Sister Apollo (left to right) celebrating the arrival of their new sink.

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      The pressurizing tank going on its stand

      Unloading new tank

      Unloading the ground tank for installation

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      My recent trip to Uganda and Kenya

      By Naomi Corera, November 21, 2014

      I had the grace to visit our brothers and sisters in Kenya and Uganda for five days to check on our current projects and visit with our partners at the schools and convents. I flew into Nairobi, Kenya, late on the evening of October 26, and went to see our friends in Ruai. After Kenya, I flew to Kampala, Uganda, where I met Father George to travel to Fort Portral and Kyakatara and stay through November 1, 2014.

      CWE Africa map Uganda Kenya cities towns

      This trip was really meaningful to me and the continued relationship with our brothers and sisters in Christ in Africa. When I go on these trips, I don’t want to be considered an outside donor who is arriving to find problems to fix; I always want to be a friend who is welcomed into the community. When I am visiting, I participate with the community: we go to Mass together, share meals together, pray together, and this all builds our friendship and community. We share our blessings together: they share their rich culture, their contagious joy, their faith and dependence on God, and their friendship, and I share the gifts from my friends to support them. They know that people whom they have not met still love them and are caring for them through their schools and families. They think that is so beautiful that they have friends in the United States who love them.

      Kenya

      One of the highlights of my trip was to see the new van at Little Flower School. We have been collecting money for this van for a long time. This van means that children who live far from the school are able to come to school. The school also hired Peter to drive the bus and make sure the children are taken to and from home safely. I noticed that Peter took such good care of the children. The van has already become an invaluable asset for the school.

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      The children were waiting to see me at Little Flower Nursery School. The pre-K and Kindergarten children were excited to sing and dance for me. Notice that many of the girls have the hair cut short to avoid getting lice, with the droughts in Kenya and shortage of showers.

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      Peter invited me to his house and was delighted to invite me in without embarrassment. He ran in quickly to bring out his 7 month-old baby. When I entered the house, I was horrified by the living conditions. Notice the Rosaries on the wall. Peter told me about the power of the Rosary for their family. I noticed the dirt floor and Peter invited me to sit, but I was afraid to sit because the chairs were just sitting on stones. When I asked Peter about the land, he said he owned it, so I told Peter to keep praying and I would go back to try to help for a new house.

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      Rachel, the cook for the sisters, was so happy for my visit that she cooked two chickens for lunch.

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      Geoffrey and Peter are twins and the sons of a farmer from a village away. They came to the convent to get Rosaries to share with other high school students. They are the top students at their high school.

      IMG_3436_fotorEvery November, the high school students take a national exam. This is Charles Lwanga High School, where the children from poorer families (such as Peter and Geoffrey’s) attend.

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      Back at Little Flower School, the children were eager again to see me. CWE brought the school back from decay and now the children from poorer families can attend. We paved the floors, procured the tables and chairs, and drilled a well. This is what I say “giving birth to my baby” when I see the children happy, smiling, and singing. The Rosaries are from IHM Rosary Makers group in Ann Arbor.

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      This is Anne, a mother of five. She is one of my faithful friends and she is looking so much better. Every time I saw her, starting about 7 years ago, she looked skin and bones and coughing. After noticing this each visit for a few years, I finally went to see the living conditions for Anne and her children. Her house had cement bags in a one-room hut with a landlady shouting for rent. There were dogs and chickens from the landlady sharing the house, too. Anne had nowhere else to go but no way to improve the situation. Now when I see Anne, she looks so healthy since there’s no one shouting every month to pay, the children have a place to play, and they are so happy. She says, “No stress. No stress.” What a difference!

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      Millicent and her five children also came to visit me. Millicent’s husband was killed while on night watch duty at the convent. Ronald (in red sweater) has just graduated primary school and is starting high school. After her husband’s funeral, everything had been taken from her family’s home – at the funeral, she refused to re-marry because she is already occupied with her five children, but if a widow refuses to re-marry a brother of her deceased husband, she is disowned from the community. By God’s grace, CWE was able to provide Millicent housing. She was very happy to see me.

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      Uganda

      When I arrived at Uganda, I met a group of siblings, one of whom is a nun and another who is a physician’s assistant. The PA has ambitions to start a clinic and has a building planned. I came to see how we could help bring this clinic to fruition. There will be four rooms in the clinic: reception, two patient rooms, and one overnight room.

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      I went with the sisters to a home for disabled girls. This home is supported by a British foundation. I met a girl who had been hit by a car and was receiving care on her leg. I also met a little girl with a tumor. I was torn that all I could immediately do was give her a ballon. Each girl at this home had a story: one had been beaten by her mother, another had suffered burns from boiling water assault, and an infant had Down syndrome.

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      Fort Portal is beautiful. The tea plantation was all green. Father Sylvester, just ordained one year, was giving Rosaries to the seventh graders before their high school entrance exams.

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      I was blessed to get to see Maria Goretti at her high school. She is so happy to be in school.

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      The sisters are always so happy and welcoming. Sister Apollo was celebrated her golden jubilee of 50 years as a professed sister. Earlier in the day she was hard at work tending for the piglets and picking pineapple and melons.

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      I visited Holy Spirit School to see the buildings that were supported by Holy Spirit in Brighton, Michigan. The new buildings are all new and nice, but most importantly they have concrete floor – the floor in the old building is dirt. We will help demolish the old school building and build the final new building for the school.

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      The old building at Holy Spirit School.

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      The new building at Holy Spirit School.

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      The dirt floor of the old building, which is still used to capacity while waiting for the fourth of the new buildings.

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      All of the children work hard. They were grateful for Rosaries from the Rosary making group.

      Reflecting on this trip and looking ahead

      The big challenge of this trip was time: I just didn’t have time to meet with all of the families and children who are so grateful for support or yearning to go to school because of lack of a few hundred dollars. The sadness of the children who can’t go to school right now is really hard for me.

      When I’m visiting the children, I am on top of the world. I’m in my glory, in my element, and I thank God for the opportunity continually. With my passion for children, all my dreams get ahead of myself and I just have to be present with the children in front of me and be grateful for being able to help.

      I will always remember the joy of the people: the singing, the dancing, their satisfaction with the simple things. Specifically, I was so happy to see the well hole and construction of the computer lab at John Patrick High School, both recent results from CWE.

      On the horizon, I will be continuing to pray for lots of grace and support for the children. After Lenten bread and soup suppers in spring 2015, I hope to return in early summer 2015.

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      Water Is Flowing!

      By Naomi Corera, September 7, 2014

      After much anticipation, our long wait for water is over.

      Class clapping for the water

      Class clapping for the water

      My dream of providing water to our students was fulfilled in September. Thanks to all our friends who attended our CWE Bread  and Soup Lenten suppers to make  this possible. With great delight the students and the local people all cheered as they saw the water gushing out from the ground. All were ready with their yellow jerry cans for a quick fill-up! Once again CWE was able to fulfill this promise to the students because of your love and generosity.

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      Upcoming visits

      By Naomi Corera, September 4, 2014

      Uganda

      In  November 2014  I hope to visit Uganda to see our new bore-hole well and computer lab in our John/Patrick secondary school. Kamwenge district has just received electricity, so we were happy to provide our high school students with this lab.

      Kenya

      I hope to go to Kenya after the trip to Uganda to see the new school van that was purchased for Little Flower School.

      These visitations are compulsory for me, so I can see first hand the work that is carried on by the sisters, priests, and lay teachers. I am accountable for all the funds my dear friends give us. I return with videos and photos. Of course anyone is invited to come and see the work first hand with their own eyes. We proudly show off our happy children to them!

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      New projects in Sri Lanka

      By Naomi Corera,

      In 2012 we built two nursery school buildings for the sisters of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary: St. Hermain’s school in Negombo, and Our Lady of Victory in Moratuwa. We furnished two homes for girls in Mullaitivu with beds, mosquito nets and dining tables/chairs.

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      Naomi teaching the children to make rainbow bracelets.

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      Beds and mosquito nets provided by CWE.

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      Children praying before they leave for school. Prayer is very much part of their day.

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      Happy Children of Our Lady of Victory school playing in the sunny weather and testing out their new sun glasses!

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      Maria Goretti

      By Naomi Corera,

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      I first met Maria Goretti in 2007, while walking down the village, making friends an chatting with the children. She was picking some corn that she had grown. She invited me into her dark mud hut with some plastic sheets to keep out the rain. She showed me the tree branches on which she had some rags to make it comfy for her bed. Sleeping on the dirt, muddy floor she said was too bumpy and the insects were bothering her. Then she showed me some old, dirty tattered books and told me she so much wanted to go to school.

      That night as I slept on my comfy mattress, my thoughts were of Maria. Next morning I went to look for Maria – and had her registered at the Primary school with the Evangelizing Sisters.

      Today Maria is in Maria Goretti Secondary School run by the Sisters of St. Therese of The Little Flower. She received the sacrament of Confirmation in May 2014. She is a very happy, responsible student and a leader in the classroom, say her teachers. She reminds me, “Even if just one life breathes easier because of our foundation,we have been successful!”

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      It is so comforting to know that now many lives are breathing easier today because of the continuing support of our generous donors. We truly believe in God’s providence to help the lives of our children. As one mother wept as she said, “Thank you for your school. I have not eaten for 3 days but my children have eaten at your school, and that is enough for me.”

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      Maria Goretti being confirmed by Bishop Robert of Fort Portal in May 2014

      Maria Goretti from her mud hut to High School. Uganada.

       

      When I visited Maria Goretti this past October, I was so thrilled to see her and  that I had to reflect for a moment  on the long journey she had taken to be here to day at Maria Goretti High School. She is now a young lady, beautiful and full of enthusiasm to continue her studies. I remembered to give thanks in my heart to all my friends who had never met her but yet who had made this possible for her.

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