Day 2 in East Africa

Joe Knittig in Kampala, Uganda

We just wrapped up a busy day in Kampala.  Importantly, we cleared a big hurdle for our plans in East Africa.  More on that launch after our trip.

While in Kampala, Tate went on to Mbira about three hours away. He worked with our field partner to get a new village here site planned, budgeted, and ready for launch.  (Get ready Long Hollow.  Here we go again!)

We got a thorough update on the status of three sewing centers here, and they’re cranking.  Significantly, one of the businesses has secured multiple local contracts for uniforms and other clothing.  That means much more than “sustaining orphan care.”

A staff of humble, formerly unemployed women who went through vocational training for orphaned and vulnerable girls – once deemed worthless castaways – are PRODUCING.  For themselves.  For other young children that remind them of their miserable younger days.  This is more than progress towards sustainability.  Production means possibility. A new reality.  DIGNITY. For the workers.  For the children watching.  For all of you who bought school uniforms at The BIG Event, thank you! I wish you could be here to see this 

We ended our night sitting around a table, doing something we should all do much more of.  Just listening to each other.  These kids all have amazing stories.  So unique.  But so does Mike Helmuth.  Mike Fox.  Tate Williams.  Scott Kice.  Alison Barfoot.  You.  All masterpieces still on the Potter’s wheel. So nuanced and interesting.  In the low points and the high.  Thanks to all of you for sharing your color with the glorious color of churches and children a world away, yet just around the corner.  It’s a breathtaking tapestry worthy of Christ.

Another big day tomorrow.  We’ll be looking at a potential real estate project for sustainability. Then interviews for an exciting event for some of YOU right here in Uganda later this year.  Stay tuned.  Joe