In August 2024, Empowered Child Ministries made significant strides in supporting the holistic development of children under our care. Key highlights include the successful abdominal surgery for Sharif, one of our disabled children, who also faces ongoing treatment for polio. Our skilling program taught the children valuable skills, such as liquid soap making, fostering independence and creativity.

Physiotherapy sessions were expanded from once to twice a week, benefiting four children, though increased costs remain a challenge. Our specialized education program continues to support five children, providing essential learning in basic education, environmental awareness, social morals, and religious teachings. Additionally, we procured 16 pairs of school shoes, with plans to purchase 29 more, ensuring the children’s comfort and readiness for school.

This month, two children left the orphanage, one finding a permanent guardian. We welcomed a new child, Nangobi Efulansi, and continued our support for Brighton, a 6-year-old boy with cerebral palsy, by providing a new wheelchair and toys. Four more children received sponsorship, bringing the total to 23 out of 51 sponsored children, ensuring they receive extended benefits through our programs.

Recreational activities included a fun-filled day at the children’s park for nine children, sponsored by one of our donors. All children returned to the orphanage for the holidays after performing well at school, and we celebrated four birthdays, fostering a sense of joy and belonging.

Our commitment to health remains strong, as all children who fell ill this month received prompt medical care and fully recovered. We continued Sunday services and introduced worship sessions, with plans to launch the ECM Worship Choir soon, promoting spiritual growth and moral development among the children.

Overall, August was a month of progress and growth, thanks to the continued support of our donors, sponsors, and partners.

1.1 Quick Statistics

In terms of demographics, we have a diverse group of children. Fifty-six percent of our children, which translates to 28 individuals, are male. The remaining forty-four percent, or 22 individuals, are female. This balance adds to the rich, varied environment of our community, fostering a sense of family among the children as they learn and grow together.

Our commitment is to provide a nurturing, inclusive environment where each child feels valued and supported, regardless of gender or special needs. We strive to create a home where every child can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.

We are blessed to care for 50 children at the orphanage, each of whom brings unique joy and challenges to our community. Among them, 44 children are school-goers, actively participating in their education and personal growth through formal schooling.

The remaining six children have special needs that require specialized attention and care. Four of these children are living with disabilities and receive specialized education at home, ensuring they get the support and tailored learning experiences they need. Despite not being able to attend traditional schools, they thrive in an environment that caters specifically to their abilities and potential.

Additionally, we have two children who are autistic and cannot attend regular school. We are committed to their growth and development, providing specialized education at the orphanage itself. This ensures they receive the focused and individualized care they require, allowing them to learn and flourish in a supportive setting.

Our dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to provide all our children with the education, care, and love they deserve, regardless of their individual circumstances. We believe in the potential of every child and are devoted to nurturing their growth in a way that respects and honors their unique needs. The above graph clears indicates our commitment to provision of education to these children. Thanks for all your support towards this cause.

2. PROGRAM UPDATES

•  Sharif’s Successful Surgery and Ongoing Treatment: We are grateful to report a successful abdominal surgery for Sharif, one of our disabled children, who was diagnosed with intestinal obstruction. The surgery was critical, and Sharif is now on the path to recovery. Unfortunately, he has also been diagnosed with polio, and we are committed to addressing this issue with the best available resources. We thank all those who supported Sharif’s surgery and continue to stand with us in his ongoing care.
• Children’s Skilling Program – Liquid Soap Making: This month, we conducted a skilling program for the children, teaching them how to make liquid soap. This initiative empowers the children with practical life skills, boosting their self-reliance and confidence. It is more than just a hands-on activity; it promotes creativity, enhances problem-solving abilities, and offers an opportunity for income generation in the future. The skills learned can also help reduce costs for the orphanage, as the children can produce soap for daily use, contributing to the community’s sustainability.
• Physiotherapy Sessions: Physiotherapy sessions have been ongoing, benefiting four children under our care. With the increased number of sessions from one to two per week, we saw a total of eight sessions in August. These sessions have been instrumental in improving the physical mobility and overall well-being of the children. However, the increase in workload for the therapist has raised the cost from UGX 210,000 to UGX 300,000. These sessions significantly improve the children’s muscle strength, coordination, and overall quality of life, allowing them to experience better physical independence.
• Specialized Education Program: We continue to offer specialized education to five children with disabilities and those unable to attend school. This program covers essential subjects such as basic education, environmental awareness, social morals, and religious teachings. The importance of this initiative lies in its ability to foster cognitive development, improve social skills, and instill moral values. Through tailored learning, these children are receiving the necessary support to overcome their educational barriers, preparing them for a more independent and meaningful future.
• Procurement of School Shoes: We successfully procured 16 new pairs of shoes for the school-going children, with plans to secure 29 more pairs. Proper footwear is crucial for the children’s comfort and health, especially as many of them walk long distances to school. Having appropriate shoes not only boosts their confidence but also reduces the risk of injuries, enhancing their overall school experience. It’s an essential part of ensuring they can focus on their studies without physical discomfort.
• Child Movements: In August, two children left the orphanage. Magero Sylvia found a permanent guardian on the 28th, and Calton departed on the 3rd due to continued indiscipline despite counseling efforts. However, we welcomed a new child, Nangobi Efubusi, born on 26th September 2019, on the 28th of August. We are committed to providing Nangobi with a loving and supportive environment, ensuring her smooth transition into our family.
• Support for Brighton: We purchased a new wheelchair and toys for Fuko Brighton, a 6-year-old disabled boy from Iganga who joined us in July. Brighton, who has cerebral palsy and lost his parents in a motor accident, continues to inspire us with his cheerful spirit. Despite his physical limitations, Brighton communicates with those around him, and we are dedicated to ensuring he receives the care, medical attention, and emotional support needed to help him thrive.
• Child Sponsorship: Four more children—Trevor, Shadrach, Leticiah, and Mwase Samuel—received sponsorship this month, bringing our total to 23 sponsored children out of 51. Sponsorship allows children to access extended benefits like quality education, healthcare, and personal development programs. This support profoundly impacts their lives, enabling them to thrive and secure better opportunities for their future.
• Recreational Activities at the Children’s Park: Nine children enjoyed a delightful day at the children’s park, engaging in various fun activities such as swimming, bouncing castles, and other games, followed by a special dinner. This outing, sponsored by Laura, one of our generous donors, was an exciting break from the routine, allowing the children to bond, socialize, and experience joy and freedom in a safe environment.
• School Holidays: All the children are now back at the orphanage for their holidays after performing well in school and receiving their report cards. Their continued academic growth reflects the importance of the educational support they receive, and we are proud of their progress. As they prepare to return to school in mid-September, we remain committed to nurturing their learning journey.
• Birthday Celebrations: We celebrated the birthdays of Kisakye Leticiah on the 2nd, Magero Sylvia on the 23rd, Muwanika Garvin on the 25th, and Kakaire Musa on the 8th of August. These celebrations bring joy, a sense of belonging, and the warmth of community, making the children feel valued and loved, which is vital to their emotional and social well-being.
• Medical Care: We are pleased to report that all children who fell ill this month received timely medical attention and have fully recovered. This highlights our dedication to maintaining the health and well-being of every child. Your continued support is crucial in ensuring that we can swiftly respond to any health challenges and provide comprehensive medical care.
• Spiritual Growth: Sunday services continued through August, helping the children deepen their understanding of God, enhance their worship, and develop good moral foundations. In addition to the regular Sunday classes, the children have started worship sessions, and we are excited to announce the upcoming launch of the ECM Worship Choir, which will give them a platform to express their faith through music.

3. FINANCIAL REPORTS

Empowered Child Ministries’ financial report provides a comprehensive overview of the organization’s budget allocation, expenditures, and funding sources, emphasizing its commitment to financial transparency and responsible stewardship of resources. The report details revenue streams, including donations from individuals, grants from partner organizations, and income from various fundraising activities. These funds are crucial in supporting the diverse needs of the 51 children under the ministry’s care.

Key expenses outlined in the report include substantial investments in child welfare, covering daily needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. The organization also prioritizes educational programs, ensuring that both disabled and school-going children have access to learning resources, specialized instruction, and vocational training. Healthcare is another major area of expenditure, with the report highlighting costs associated with medical treatments, emergency care, and ongoing therapies for children with special health needs.

Operational costs, including administrative expenses and utility bills, are managed carefully to ensure the organization’s smooth day-to-day functioning. This includes maintaining facilities, paying staff, and covering essential services like electricity and water.

These expenditures ensure the smooth operation of our facilities and the provision of a safe and nurturing environment for the 50 children we support. For detailed financial report for August 2024 income and expenditure, it is available upon request. Request Report.

4. FUNDING NEEDS

To continue our vital work and enhance the well-being of the children under our care, we are seeking financial support for the following needs:

• Solar Panel for Lighting During Power Outages: This month, we have experienced frequent power outages, which significantly disrupt the children’s evening activities. When there is no power, it becomes difficult for the children to engage in productive activities, especially studying or reading at night. Installing solar panels would provide a reliable source of lighting during these outages, allowing the children to continue their studies uninterrupted. Access to proper lighting is crucial for their academic success, as it gives them the opportunity to complete their homework, study for exams, and engage in reading. Solar energy is not only a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution, but it also ensures that the children’s education is not hindered by unreliable power supply. This would create a more conducive environment for learning and foster a sense of security at night.
• Church Equipment: Our Sunday school has grown significantly from its humble beginnings and has become a vital part of our community. As we continue to nurture this growth, we are in urgent need of church instruments to enhance our services. Specifically, we require a keyboard, speakers, and microphones to improve the quality of worship and teaching sessions. Having proper equipment will allow us to create a more engaging and inspiring environment for both children and adults. It will also enhance the children’s experience in Sunday school, helping them to participate more actively in singing, learning, and other church activities.
• Desktop Computer for Program Activities: We currently spend a significant amount of money hiring computers to compile reports and manage our programs. Having a desktop computer in-house would drastically reduce these costs and improve our efficiency. A dedicated computer would enable us to streamline administrative tasks, compile reports more quickly, and manage the children’s records and sponsorship details without relying on external services. Additionally, it would be a valuable tool for the children as they could learn basic computer skills, which are essential in today’s digital world.
• Kitchen Renovation and Improvement: Our kitchen structure urgently needs renovation, as it is not weatherproof. During heavy rains, water splashes directly into the cooking area, contaminating the food and putting the cooking fire out. As a result, we often experience delays in preparing meals, forcing the children to eat late on rainy days. Renovating the kitchen to prevent water from entering would significantly improve our meal preparation process, ensuring that the children receive their meals on time, regardless of the weather. A safer, more functional kitchen would also improve hygiene standards and create a healthier environment for meal preparation.
• Land Acquisition for a New Orphanage: We urgently require funding to purchase land for constructing a new, permanent orphanage. This will provide a safe, spacious, and stable home for the 50 children in our care, addressing the growing need for better facilities.
• Construction of a New Orphanage: After acquiring land, we need financial support to construct a purpose-built orphanage. This facility will offer a comfortable, supportive, and child-friendly environment, tailored to meet the specific needs of children with disabilities and those without family care.
• Rental Space: As our current space is too small to accommodate all 51 children comfortably, we need funds to secure a larger rental facility until the new orphanage is ready. This temporary space will ensure that the children have adequate living conditions during the transition period.
• Healthcare and Medical Services: Ongoing funding is essential to provide comprehensive medical care, including regular check-ups, emergency treatments, and specialized health services such as physiotherapy and surgeries. The increasing cost of treatments, such as physiotherapy sessions for children with disabilities, requires additional financial support.
• Hiring a Specialized Teacher: To enhance the quality of education for children with disabilities who are unable to attend school, we seek funding to hire an additional specialized teacher. This will bring the total number of specialized educators to two, ensuring more personalized and effective teaching for these children while others attend regular school.
• Skilling Program Support: Financial assistance is needed to continue and expand our skilling programs, such as the recent liquid soap-making training. These programs empower the children by teaching them valuable life skills, preparing them for future self-reliance and potential income generation.
• Procurement of a DSLR Camera: To enhance our outreach efforts on social media and document the stories of the children, we need funds to purchase a DSLR camera. This will allow us to provide timely updates to our supporters and better share the progress and achievements of the children in our care.

These funding needs are critical to ensuring the continued success of Empowered Child Ministries’ programs, helping us provide holistic care, education, and emotional support to every child. With your support, we can improve their living conditions, equip them with skills for the future, and secure a brighter future for them.

How You Can Help:

1. Online Donations: Contribute directly to our mission through secure online donations in any of the following ways. Your financial support helps us provide essential services and programs for the children:

1. We gladly accept one-time donations of any amount, which can be directed toward supporting ongoing projects at the orphanage or meeting daily program needs. One-time donations are incredibly valuable as they provide immediate financial support that helps us address urgent needs or implement important projects without delay.
2. We also highly encourage donors to consider recurring donations, which play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable support for the children. Recurring donations provide a steady and reliable source of funding, allowing us to plan long-term programs, cover monthly expenses such as food, healthcare, and education, and respond quickly to any urgent needs. By committing to a regular contribution, you help ensure the continuity and impact of our work, making a lasting difference in the lives of the children we support. Visit our website to make a donation today.

1. Sponsor a Child: Make a lasting impact by sponsoring a child. Your support ensures they receive proper care, education, and opportunities for a brighter future.
2. Gifts in Kind: Donate essential items such as clothing, educational materials, or household supplies. These gifts directly benefit the children and enhance their daily lives.
3. Fundraise: Organize a fundraising event or campaign to support our cause. Whether it’s a charity run, bake sale, or online crowdfunding, your efforts can make a significant difference. Contact us for resources and ideas to get started.

Your generosity and support are crucial in helping us continue our mission and provide a nurturing environment for the children in our care. Thank you for making a difference!

5. CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

Arising Problems for Empowered Child Ministries and Proposed Solutions

Lack of Lighting During Power Outages

Problem: Frequent power outages make it difficult for children to carry out essential activities, especially at night. Without electricity, the children are unable to study, play, or move safely around the facility after dark. This is particularly challenging for children who rely on evening study time to keep up with their schoolwork. The lack of reliable lighting creates safety hazards and limits their ability to focus on education, negatively impacting their academic progress.

• Solution: To address this, we need to install solar panels that can provide a consistent and eco-friendly source of power, ensuring that the facility remains lit even during blackouts. Solar power will offer long-term savings and sustainability while allowing the children to safely engage in nighttime activities such as studying. It will also create a more stable and comfortable environment for all.

Poor Kitchen Conditions During Rain

• Problem: The current kitchen structure is inadequate, as rainwater enters the cooking area, splashing onto the fire and contaminating the food. This leads to delays in meal preparation, with children having to wait longer to eat during rainy weather. The poor condition of the kitchen not only disrupts the daily routine but also presents hygiene and safety concerns, as cooking in such an environment increases the risk of illness and accidents.
• Solution: The kitchen urgently needs renovation to improve its structure and make it more weatherproof. Renovating the kitchen to include proper roofing and drainage will ensure that cooking can continue uninterrupted even during heavy rain. This will not only enhance food safety but also prevent meal delays, ensuring the children receive their meals on time, regardless of the weather conditions.

Space Limitations:

• Problem: Our current facility is too small to accommodate the growing number of children and their activities, especially those involving disabled children who require more space for mobility. The landlord’s pressure due to limited space exacerbates this issue, compromising comfort and safety.
• Solution: We need to secure more funding to purchase land and construct a new, larger orphanage. In the interim, explore options for a new rental space that better meets our needs and can provide a temporary but more suitable environment for the children.

Financial Constraints and Impact on Programs:

• Problem: Operating below budget constraints limits our ability to fully implement programs, affecting the quality and scope of activities offered. This financial shortfall impacts the well-being and development of the children.
• Solution: We need to Increase fundraising efforts and seek additional grants to bridge the financial gap. Implement a more structured budget management plan to optimize resource allocation and prioritize essential programs.

Children Without Sponsors:

• Problem: 27 out of 50 children lack individual sponsors, leading to reliance on inconsistent collective donations. This creates instability in meeting the children’s needs.
• Solution: There is need to launch a targeted sponsorship campaign to recruit new sponsors. We are developing engaging outreach programs to attract and retain sponsors, ensuring a stable and reliable source of support for each child.

Healthcare Challenges:

• Problem: Financial strain on medical resources has made it difficult to cover the costs of necessary treatments and hospitalizations, putting additional pressure on our budget.
• Solution: We are establishing partnerships with healthcare providers for discounted or pro-bono services. Increase funding specifically for healthcare needs through dedicated fundraising campaigns and seek grants focused on medical support.

Addressing these problems with targeted solutions will help Empowered Child Ministries enhance its capacity to provide effective care and support for the children, ensuring their needs are consistently met.

6. SEPTMEMBER MONTHLY WORK PLAN

Objective: To ensure the well-being and development of the children in our care through planned activities and targeted initiatives.

Week 1: Health and Wellness Focus

Objective: Enhance the overall health and wellness of the children.

• Activity: Medical Check-ups

• Details: Schedule and conduct comprehensive medical check-ups for all children.
• Responsible: Health Coordinator
• Resources Needed: Medical supplies, transportation, healthcare professionals

• Activity: First Aid Training
  • Details: Conduct a first aid training session for staff and older children.
  • Responsible: Health Coordinator
  • Resources Needed: Training materials, first aid kits

Week 2: Education and Skill Development

Objective: Support educational progress and skill acquisition.

• Activity: School Supplies Distribution for Term 3
  • Details: Distribute new school supplies and materials to children.
  • Responsible: Education Coordinator
  • Resources Needed: Stationery, textbooks, backpacks
• Activity: Skilling Program Workshops
  • Details: Conduct workshops on various skills such as computer literacy, crafts, and vocational training.
  • Responsible: Program Coordinator
  • Resources Needed: Workshop materials, guest instructors

Week 3: Fundraising and Community Engagement

Objective: Raise funds and engage the community to support our initiatives.

• Activity: Sponsorship Drive
  • Details: Launch a campaign to recruit new sponsors for the children.
  • Responsible: Fundraising Coordinator
  • Resources Needed: Marketing materials, sponsor packages
• Activity: Community Outreach Event
  • Details: Organize an event to showcase the children’s talents and programs to the community.
  • Responsible: Community Engagement Coordinator
  • Resources Needed: Event space, promotional materials, refreshments

Week 4: Facility Improvement and Maintenance

Objective: Ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.

• Activity: Facility Maintenance
  • Details: Conduct maintenance checks and repairs on the current facility.
  • Responsible: Operations Manager
  • Resources Needed: Maintenance tools, supplies
• Activity: Relocation Planning
  • Details: Identify potential new rental spaces and plan the logistics for a possible move.
  • Responsible: Operations Manager
  • Resources Needed: Real estate contacts, moving logistics

Ongoing Activities:

• Daily Meals and Nutrition:
  • Ensure nutritious meals are provided to all children.
  • Responsible: Kitchen Staff
  • Resources Needed: Food supplies, kitchen equipment
• Regular Counseling and Emotional Support:
  • Provide regular counseling sessions for children in need.
  • Responsible: Counseling Team
  • Resources Needed: Counseling materials, private space for sessions
• Monthly Financial Review:
  • Review and report on monthly expenses and budget.
  • Responsible: Financial Manager
  • Resources Needed: Financial records, accounting software

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Conduct weekly meetings to review progress and address any issues.
• Prepare a monthly report summarizing achievements, challenges, and next steps.

 THANK YOU MESSAGE

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our donors and sponsors. Your generosity and unwavering support have made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of the children in our care. Thanks to your contributions, we are able to provide not only the basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare, but also quality education, emotional support, and the opportunities they need to build a brighter, more hopeful future.

Your commitment allows us to create a safe and nurturing environment where these children can thrive, grow, and dream beyond their current circumstances. Whether it’s funding their education, ensuring they have daily meals, or providing a secure place to call home, your support transforms lives in ways that words cannot fully capture. You are not just donors; you are partners in this mission, helping us break the cycle of poverty, neglect, and hardship.

We sincerely thank you for believing in our mission, for your trust, and for choosing to stand by our side. Together, we are making a meaningful difference, giving these children the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in life. Your kindness and compassion continue to be a source of hope for every child we serve.

Sincerely,

Bazira Ibrahim

Programs Manager

Empowered Child Ministries