2007 Memory Portraits

“Fred was brought from Wanyange village. He is the younger brother of Frank. His mother died after being kicked in the stomach by her alcoholic husband who was very violent towards his family. She died while seven months pregnant. During Fred’s difficult childhood he has not had parental love and care. His father would only give him attention when he would take Fred to drink with him. He is still in need of much counseling due to the abuse he went through physically, mentally and emotionally. Fred has the biggest smile and is constantly laughing. He is performing well at school, especially in Math and English and he wants to become a doctor.”

Emma, short for Emmanuel, is an orphan, both parents (Karamajongs from Northeast Uganda) died of HIV/AIDS and alcohol addiction. With no other alternative, Emma became a street boy for many years, and was eventually taken in by a child outreach organization. His days consisted of schooling, bathing in the lake and then returning to sleep on the street. In P5 he decided to leave the project and sought out Stephen for counseling. He was then accepted into the family. He is a very bright and promising student. Currently he is at Bukoyo S.S.S, which is recognized as one of the best schools in the area. At school, he was elected as the sports perfect because of his talent in football. Besides football, Emma also likes to write and is focused on his education. He wants to help others in the future, possibly by becoming a lawyer.

“Agnes may have come from Musita in Eastern Uganda, but her origin is not known. She is an orphan as both of her parents died of AIDS in the middle of her education. She was able to

complete senior four but she could not continue with her education due to poverty in her family. She came to the family as a shy girl who is always smiling and willing to help. Agnes is the first born in the family of five siblings. Due to the loss of their parents all the children dropped out of school. She hopes to study and help her siblings. Agnes loves to chat with friends, listen to music, and she is talented at making tablecloths. She loves having serious discussions and learning.”

“Jackie is the third born from her mother and one of nine children by her father. Her father abandoned the family and her mother could not afford to provide food for her family. Her father died of AIDS and left her mother with no hope. At the end of 2005 Jackie came to live at the home. El-Shadai home now financially supports her mother who is now receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS. Jackie’s high level of stress and depression resulted in ulcers. Through counseling and treatment her mental and physical condition is improving. Jackie loves to play netball. She enjoys reading, fine arts and studying and would like to become an architect or doctor.”

“Eunice is from a remote village in the Iganga District. Her father is retired and an alcoholic who does not take care of her welfare or education. Her mother doesn’t work so they have no means to support their six children. Eunice was ignored and neglected when she was young. Stephen heard of the situation and took her into the El-Shadai home. Her parents agreed to allow Eunice and her brother Rogers to go. Later, their sisters, Tabitha and Agnes (Toffee) came.

She is a very social and hardworking girl and a very bright student. She loves to sing and play netball. She dislikes seeing people fighting or witnessing any kind of abuse, probably due to what she saw at home when she was younger. Because of her change in environment, she is now able to use her gifts and focus on her education.”