In April, volunteers of BAPS Charities in Tanzania conducted a food drive for three different causes donating over half a metric ton of food and supplies to the following charitable organizations:
Children’s Retention Home – The home is run by the Tanzanian government. It was started in 1962 in response to rising crime rates among the youth. At present, it has got 38 inmates, whose ages range from 12 to 17. The warden of the home is Mr. Ramadhani Yahaya, who is assisted by Mr. Ali Said Msende. The Home offers a chance for rehabilitation and re-entry into society as productive individuals for the residents.
Help2Kids Orphanage – The orphanage was founded in 2010 by Help2kids International, a Swiss NGO that operates in Africa. The orphanage is located in the Mbezi area, which is approximately 20 kilometers from Dar es Salaam. 31 children reside in the home, whose age groups range from 4 to 18 years. In addition to housing, the orphanage provides basic necessities that all children deserve; education, food, healthcare, and a family environment to grow up in. The goal of the NGO is to help the children break the cycle of poverty, and live productive lives.
Salvation Army Matumaini was founded in 1933 by British Volunteers working in Tanzania. At present, the school is sustained by foreign aid and support from local citizens. Mrs. Cecilia is the current head of the home, which consists of 200 physically disabled children, whose ages range from 3 to 17. In total, 15 teachers conduct various classes, ranging from Mathematics, to English. This education provides a foundation for the children to progress their lives, despite being disabled. The school is their permanent home, where all amenities are provided for free.
BAPS Charities volunteers went to each of these places and provided the children and caretakers with the supplies. The following items were provided:
- 75 kg sugar
- 75 kg rice
- 6 kg salt
- 75 kg beans
- 150 kg wheat flour
- 60 liters of cooking oil
- 150 kg of maize flour
- 270 gift packs for the children