JINJA CONNECTION
Omudu Shadrach
Omudu Shadrach, a 10-year-old from Masese III, embraced our program on April 29, 2021, becoming an invaluable part of our mission. Over the span of 7 months, his unwavering commitment and active involvement in Jinja connection programs have been truly inspiring. With dedicated attendance and enthusiastic engagement in classroom activities as well as sports and games, Omudu has shown remarkable responsiveness, illuminating the transformative power of our initiatives.
Story
When Shadrach first joined our program, he was characterized by reservation and emotional struggles, finding it difficult to express himself effectively. However, our comprehensive Jinja Connection rehabilitation programs, encompassing education, counseling, devotion, discipleship, and Bible study, have sparked a profound transformation in him. Notably, Shadrach's progress in reading and writing has been remarkable, as evidenced by his engaging in Bible reading sessions with peers and captivating the class with his storytelling abilities. Through his unwavering commitment and positive attitude, he has not only forged strong bonds with staff members but also formed meaningful friendships with fellow children, such as Balyeku Moses, Dembula Rodgers, and Abu Umar, among others. Shadrach's journey serves as a testament to the power of our programs in nurturing personal growth and fostering genuine connections.
Menya Shafiq
He is12 years old, He is schooling in Busano Primary in Kamuli district.
Story
Shafiq, once a long-term resident of the streets, has undergone a remarkable journey of transformation. His turbulent path began in Mbale town at a tender age of approximately 7-8 years. However, it was in Jinja where he found a sense of adaptability and developed an extraordinary resilience to survive the challenges of street life. Building friendships and employing survival tactics became his coping mechanisms.
To help Shafiq break free from the streets, the Jinja Connection team utilized a range of rehabilitation strategies, including intensive counseling, guidance, mentorship, and discipleship. These interventions gradually paved the way for his eventual acceptance of returning home. In 2018, Shafiq embarked on the journey towards rehabilitation, although he faced setbacks and relapses in 2018 and 2020.
Remarkably, Shafiq has experienced a significant transformation. His dedication to both school and family life is now unparalleled. Even during the lockdown period, the latest follow-up call brought encouraging news as Shafiq was found at home, reflecting his newfound commitment to a stable and secure environment. His story serves as a testament to the power of intervention and support, illuminating the potential for change and resilience in the face of adversity.
Mutesi Rashmin and SANYU SHIRATI
Home visit in the village of Nabitende Kalungami, located in Iganga district
Story
On the 9th of June, 2023, we conducted a home visit to Mutesi Rashmin and Sanyu Shirati in the village of Nabitende Kalungami, located in Iganga district. Mutesi Rashmin is a 9-year-old girl, and she lives with her mother, who is a single parent taking care of six children. The identity of Rashmin's father remains unknown, and her mother struggles to find means of survival, often leaving her children behind while she searches for a livelihood. Their living conditions are in a slum area.
Tragically, Mutesi Rashmin was a victim of a sexual assault perpetrated by an adult male who fled the area after the incident. As a result of this traumatic experience, Rashmin, who was 8 years old at the time, underwent a medical check-up and was diagnosed with HIV. In response to her situation, Jinja Connection intervened by resettling Rashmin with her caring and willing Auntie, who resides in a village far from the slum area where her mother resides from. Under the care of her Auntie, Rashmin is currently enrolled in the Jinja Connection education program.
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A major challenge in Rashmin's care is ensuring that she consistently receives her antiretroviral (ARV) treatment. These medications require administration after a full meal to prevent severe adverse effects. To address this concern, it is essential to train Rashmin's Auntie to diligently manage Rashmin's ARV treatment. In the meantime, Jinja Connection has been providing regular food supplies and routine monitoring to ensure Rashmin can take her medication appropriately.
During the home visit, Jinja Connection supplied essential provisions to support Rashmin and her family. These supplies included 15kg of maize flour, 5kg of beans, 2kg of sugar, tea leaves, and biscuits. Additionally, basic hygiene items such as 1kg of white star bar soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and clothing were provided to meet their immediate needs.
Through our concerted efforts and the support of Rashmin's Auntie, we strive to provide a stable and nurturing environment for Rashmin's well-being and development. Jinja Connection remains committed to assisting vulnerable children like Rashmin, empowering them with the necessary resources and care to lead fulfilling lives despite the challenges they face.