Dear CCR members in Rome,
We,
the Grannies in Wakefield wanted to send you a little update on what we
are up to. You will remember that in September 2010 you were kind
enough to host us with the help of Air Canada. We had a wonderful time
in Rome with you all and have fond memories of our trip.
As
you know the Wakefield Grannies have committed to supporting a small
group in Natal, South Africa in addition to our 40 Gogos (grandmothers)
in Alexandra Township. We became aware of them when they drove for 8
hours to come to a hospice in Soweto to pick up mealie pap (a corn
porridge which is a staple in the African diet). Since then we have
sent them small amounts of money to help with food and transportation to
medical appointments. In South Africa a little goes a long way. Your
generous donations last year made a big impact and we will not forget
the help of our fellow Canadians in Italy.
Our
next challenge is to arrange to send two Wakefield Grannies to South
Africa to assess the needs in our two groups. The original Alex Gogos
have had the benefit of seven years of support and many of their
grandchildren are now hoping to enter college or university. Stability
and hope for the future are showing results in school success and goals
for young people and we need to evaluate how best to maximize this
development. We also believe that we need to have an on-site visit at
least once every three years to ensure our ability to verify that all
funds we send are used well. Of course as you know, "all money raised
goes directly to help the women in South Africa" and that we have no
administration costs. So we are facing a new challenge this year, how
to fly two Wakefield Grannies to South Africa without having to use
money already earmarked as part of our direct support? We will need to
make a special appeal for help if any of you feel so inclined please let
us know by visiting our web site: www.thegrannies.org
Best regards to you all from Wakefield, Quebec
Brenda Rooney
for
The Wakefield Grannies
email: brenda@rooneyproductions.org
