Dear CHERISH Sponsors and Supporters,
This year marks the 20th year in our relationship with Hope ministry in Meru! What a tremendous blessing this has been for everyone involved. Our goal is to help educate the youth of Meru and offer additional support as needed. Thank you all so much for your part in this effort.
Since 2022, a severe drought has affected large parts of Kenya. In Meru, three-fourths of the country was affected by the drought. For many families, one meal a day was the norm. Students were unable to concentrate in class or participate in school. In response to the crisis, we have used non-sponsorship funds that many of you have generously given to CHERISH to partner with Kenyan groups who initiated feeding programs supporting the Meru community. As a result, since April, the students included in these feeding programs have all been able to have regular lunches.
Despite the fact that rain did come, it was not enough to overcome all the effects of the drought. Hope now lies in the rainy season from March to May. Please pray with us for recovery from this dreadful situation.
As we begin the 2023 school year, we are sponsoring 177 students. Because of Covid, Kenyan schools had altered their usual three-term school year to four terms in 2021 and 2022. Students are looking forward now to returning to their normal schedule. Guardians send their gratitude for sponsors continuing to support the students throughout the Covid crisis and send their best wishes for a “HAPPY NEW YEAR 2023 full of GOD’s blessings”
If you are currently sponsoring a student, please make note that you can check how much you have given toward your 2022-23 Sponsorship Pledge by clicking on “How to Check Your Cherish Donation History” at above. Sponsorship rates and giving instructions can also be found on the site.
Thank you for being a part of this important ministry.
Sharon Moffitt, Cherish Team Member and Cherish Sponsor
Emily Bosh, UPPC Elder of Outreach and Mission
Rev. Lisa Woicik, UPPC Minister of Outreach