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Six Promises to Malawi's Orphans & Gogos in Poverty

Poverty is a complex web of problems and not easily overcome. But Jesus was clear about our obligation: "In as much as you have done it to the least of these, you have done it unto me."  As imperfect as our helping efforts may be at times, we purpose to express our concern and care to those we serve in these six areas:

Promise One: BE FED

Over 2,246 orphans and vulnerable children who attend our village preschools (Community Based Childcare Centers) are receiving one healthy meal each school day. This is important because Malawi has the 5th highest stunting in the world because of malnutrition. 53% of children under 5 are stunted, 15% are underweight and 4% are wasted. The maize-based porridge has soy or ground nuts, salt and sugar added so these little minds and bodies are ready to learn each day. The village gogos play a significant role in this feeding program when they donate a "tithe" of their maize crop so the children will have enough all school year. SAFE/G0GO assists these gogos and the orphans and children they care for with seeds and fertilizer that help stabilize their food security. 

Promise Two: BE HEALTHY

Malaria is the major cause of death in Malawi, and most at risk are children 3 months to 5 years old. SAFE-GOGO provides mosquito nets, training in their use and warm blankets. When water must be carried daily and basics such as soap are a luxury, it is important that children, and their gogos, learn the importance of basic hygiene--hand washing before eating (done with the fingers), and after using the latrine. HIV/AIDS is still a major health concern with a 12.8% infection rate among women and a 8.2% rate among men. Young people account for 50% of all new infections. Our Why Wait? and SAFE Life Youth programs target the youth and teach them how to stay safe and help others.

Promise Three: BE EDUCATED

Education is essential to any escape from poverty.  Typically only 30% of children in Malawi finish primary school. A good preschool experience is vital to give the children a strong start that will help them be successful. We carefully train and monitor local village caregivers (preschool teachers) who staff our CBCCs (Community Based Childcare Centers). A small stipend--unusual in Malawi--is paid for their services and this has helped us retain well-trained teachers. Orphans are helped with secondary school fees and tutoring help is available at our SAFE Haven in Zomba.

Promise Four: BE SAFE

In public and private schools, the WHY WAIT? Truth for Youth, government approved, life skills curriculum teaches in an engaging way the Biblical principles necessary to have a healthy life, family and community. Malawi's high HIV/AIDS infection rate among young people makes this a life-saving program! Wherever the WHY WAIT? Curriculum has been introduced, schools have also seen dramatically reduced dropout rates due to pregnancy or early marriage. Malawi's next generation can be on a path to an AIDS-free future because they have the best “ABC” AIDS prevention of all—not condoms, but guidance rooted in Abstinence, Be faithful in marriage, and Character (Christ-like character).