A few weeks ago, just after Lockdown was announced, Jacky tweeted asking if we could donate food to families which needed it. We’d been holding off fundraisers, given everyone’s struggles but it seemed like the ‘right time’ to get started.
I immediately responded so that we could get some supplies for the families of the children supported by 40 days over 40 smiles Foundation. I also mentioned that we would share accountability as donations came in.
It was not long before Andrew* asked why I should be trusted yet many before me have promised transparency and gone on to do the opposite. It was a sad reminder of what we are now accustomed to. Even as I responded to him, all I had were ‘words.’
Thankfully, actions followed thereafter. We raised Ugx 2,273,000 from generous Ugandans on Twitter. We were able to buy and distribute flour and beans to 110 families in Kibuli who were more than happy to get this boost from ‘strangers.’
This might sound like a drop in the ocean but I am a firm believer in doing what you can with what you have. The aim is not to save the entire world, just to lift up the one person that you can.
Shortly after Dr. John Mark Bwanika of Rocket Health and I embarked on a campaign to get supplies for Healthcare workers across Uganda. This was born out of the desire to give a little push to the people who are doing the most for us, every single day, as we fight Covid-19. Despite inadequate PPE and resources, they show up. Unfortunately, several of them have succumbed to the disease.
The initiative dubbed #HealthworkerFundUg will cater to Healthcare workers at different treatment centres within the country. Again, we shall not reach all of them, but we will support as many as we can.
The packages worth Ugx 100,000 each, will contain, food, soap, and basic necessities.
So far, we have raised 10,297,218 from over 100 individuals from Uganda and beyond. This will cater to 120 healthcare workers.
We are overwhelmed by all the generosity and good will during such a difficult time. We could not be more thrilled to see this goal come to fruition.
The campaign ends this Sunday 11th July. If you can, please donate to the initiative and/or share the poster. We are close to the finish line and need all the help we can get.
In kind donations in form of supermarket vouchers, food stuffs and protective equipment are welcome too.
For mobile money donations:
MTN Merchant code 315934
Airtel 0707064990
If you wish to contribute by debit/credit card do follow this link on https://www.akabbo.ug/campaigns/healthcare-workers-fund-uganda/
You can also use Eversend here https://eversend.me/estar
(Details also available on the poster)
In the meantime, I just want to reiterate how grateful we are to all who have given, spread the word and trusted us to get this done; much appreciation to each one of you participating in different crowdfunding initiatives and looking out for your neighbours.
Indeed a little one shall become a thousand.
We will definitely keep you posted on the progress.
Love to you and yours.
May the weekend be kind.
Estar.
Discovery; Fulfilling my Destiny 