Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Joshua Opul

Joshua was born on 10/3/03 and is the youngest of six siblings. He speaks Luo and is learning English as he attends Otino Waa Primary School.

Joshua’s dad died in 2008 after a short battle with AIDS, leaving his mom, who is physically and mentally unable to take care of the family. An older sibling became the head of the household. A grandmother came in and has been very helpful to her daughter-in-law by contributing as much as possible. The day to day challenge of finding food consumes everyone’s time, including all of the children. They were forced to work as manual labor to provide even the basic needs. Joshua worked in local gardens to help.

Education was not usually available to this family. Many grade levels were missed. Joshua had been on a waiting list to be admitted into Otino Waa since 2008.  His chance finally came in early 2010. He started school right away and is doing well. He promises to study hard and be a doctor when he grows up. He doesn’t completely understand sponsorship from a total stranger, but sees what it means for his housemates.

Is this future worth your investment of $1.15/day?