Original Paintings Canadian Artist

In search of women's stories  while traveling through Rwanda and the DRCongo for the second time that year... I happened to meet a man named Kizungu.  We began corresponding through email over the next few months.  He told me more stories than I could comprehend... I was inspired to help... so I did.  I gathered enough support from friends and family to build a home for the orphaned children who had come under Kizungu's care.  One year to the date of meeting this man 80 children were now in his care. They moved into the new house on that date Jan. 10 2012.  We now have a sponsorship program for 100 children. This provides education, shelter and food for each at a cost of $1 per day. If not for this project and support these children would be begging on the street just to survive.  

I visit once a year and I can see the light back in the children's eyes. They are eager for education and thankful to have such good care.

My friend Cathy Cleary came to the orphanage with me in early 2014. When she arrived 10 women wanted to tell us their stories. They believed if people heard the terrible things that had, and continue to happen to them, that they would do something.  Our hearts broke open while the women gathered all their courage to speak their truth. Upon our return, Cathy made a pledge to help the women.  Kizungu asked the women what they wanted and the Tchukudu Women's Training Center began. Cathy has sponsors for each women on a two year commitment.  The first group of 16 are in their second year of training and a second group has begun their first year of training.  The group has expanded to nearly 50 women.  I visited the women a few months ago and they are doing so great... they now have a family of support!