Wilkinstown couple return from charity mission in Uganda

Winifred Farry, Trim, and Peter Flood, Ladyrath, Wilkinstown, have recently returned from a visit to Uganda with a group from the registered Irish charity Zest4Kidz. They travelled to many of the remote villages of northern Uganda which had been devastated by war and where they met children who were abducted and forced to become rebels and commit atrocities as well as witness terrible crimes. Zest4Kidz has been involved in helping these innocent victims for some time and the group visited places in Lira and Gulu, where many are still in great need. These include a centre where 200 girls, who had all been abducted during the war, are being cared for with their babies. The group delivered sanitary and hygiene products, toiletries, and toys for all the babies and the charity is now looking into building a new dormitory for them. The charity is working with children in Gulu aged eight to 18 who live on the streets in terrible conditions and have made contact with a local centre where they will get food, shelter and will be able to attend welding classes. They also continue to sponsor children in the Rachelle School in Lira and are funding goats and bicycles. Mrs Farry explained that the policy of Zest4Kidz is to give hand-ups rather than hand-outs so the people will be able to help themselves. She said it was heartening to see boys and girls using the sewing machines provided previously to learn the skills of tailoring. "The people we reached would like to extend a huge thankyou to the people of Meath who supported us in the various fundraising efforts. Words cannot express how grateful they are," said Mrs Farry. The group continues to need funds to help these children. Anyone who can help in any way should contact Winifred or Peter on (087) 280 8820. In January, both will be heading out to Belarus to bring gifts and good cheer to girls in prisons and orphanages there. Teddy bears, in new or nearly new condition, are needed.