23rd April, 2016

Dear friends,

We are giving thanks and praise to our Lord Jesus Christ.

George’s Place opened on Tuesday and is now the home of 5 street boys: Tim who has been staying with me for the last 6 months and now attends school, Anthony a boy we found at the International Street Children’s Celebration a couple of weeks ago and also stayed with me. Paul who we have known since we began the project in Kisenyi a year ago, who used to always be sniffing jet fuel but over the last couple of months has stopped (he has always reminded me of my own son Nicky) he has a really cheeky grin. Samuel a tall young man of 14 or 15 he isn’t sure of his age, and Sandy a really small boy of 12 who is finding it difficult to fit in. Simon Peter 13, came but only stayed one night, long enough to get cleaned up, fed, a haircut, screened for HIV found negative. He has a brother on the streets and wanted to be with him. As the brother is 17 and we are not registered for boys of that age it was a problem.

The home has a really happy atmosphere. Betty the cook is making some delicious meals, though today I’ve been asked to eat these really small whole fishes. I have been here for lunch every day, sometimes even get breakfast (fried Cassava and Tea).

‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’ Jeremiah 29 v 11

Sam the house uncle is leading the boys in morning and evening prayer with bible readings and thoughts. We have also started a talking/listening session each day to find out about each other. The Local Councillor 1 called in to look around and is wanting to bring the rest of his committee for a visit. Tresor has also been involved, playing volley ball with them and showing them films on his laptop. Bob has taken them for haircuts, screening and run around buying food, metal boxes for them to keep their belongings in – so a really busy week all round. Something I have noticed is that Tresor and Sam both enjoy drawing and colouring, I think this is missed in early childhood when obviously in the villages paper and pencils are not easily available.

We have three new baby chicks, Jenny had been sitting on eggs for 21 days, they are all very different and I imagine one might actually belong to Beatrix. We are keeping them inside Williams room so that they are safe from birds.

Prayers please for: the boys Tim, Anthony, Samuel, Paul and Sandy

: the boys as they learn to live together, make friends, trust
: Sam (house uncle) Betty (Cook), Brian (security) Tresor and Bob
: Simon Peter who only stayed one night, went back to his brother
: for an Operations Manager to oversee everything
: for me – patience, wisdom, guidance and cultural understanding

These are exciting times for Homes of Promise, we are making a difference to these young people’s lives, their well being and their futures but only Jesus can change their hearts.

Thank you for all your love, support and prayers as we move forward in fulfilling God’s plans.

With love and prayers.

Jane