Thanks to Wally for sending these pics to me documenting the state of ruin and disrepair of the Fairview school in Mthatha. It brings tears to your eyes to see. I can't imagine our children in these dire conditions. These children are subjected to injury, discomfort and outright unsanitary conditions on a daily basis. The amount of suffering and hardships they have to withstand all in the name of education is commendable, yet terribly sad. Even more unbelievable is that this school serves 700 children!! Can you even imagine the number of children crammed into each classroom...certainly no environment for learning. The latrines are unacceptable for any human use, much less children. It is very exciting to know that the Fairview community will have a much nicer facility to learn and grow in very soon. I feel incredibly grateful for all the luxuries we enjoy in this country and the amazing school facilities our children are lucky enough to learn in.
Glimpse at the disrepair at the Fairview School:
Broken windows
Cracked floors.jpg)
Latrines unsanitary.jpg)
Latrines filthy, in horrid state
Floor boards broken
Chipping paint
Cindy, Laurie just gave me your blog address - I'm looking forward to following along with your journey. I will be praying for all of you, for a successful and rewarding experience, as well as for the safety of the team and of the schoolchildren you are helping so greatly. I still remember the powerful message in your Christmas card about the impossibility of returning from Africa unchanged. I think it was the first in the long series of events that led us there this summer, actually. How wonderful that Wally's students are going on the trip - they will have such a new perspective, and will be so appreciative for what they have. I really wish I could be there with you as you help to make this world better for those precious children.... :)
ReplyDeletePlease let Wally know that his international Blackberry phone from Verizon Wireless has been activated. Just hoping the activation happened before he left the states. Tell him to turn on the phone and try it. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteMark