We've been there for over a year now, just listening and talking and building trust. Only recently did we bring in a mobile dental clinic and offer hair cuts. The daycare center is just an example of this. With fifty percent of the children malnourished and 60 percent living in single-parent homes, the next generation was in grave danger. The key is for people to develop self-esteem and pride in their work.
Sustainability is also important.
One project that has emerged from the work of the center is a recycled paper project. A small group of women collect used paper from the neighborhood, shred and soak it, and make new paper. This is not just about providing start-up funds for small enterprises. They are required to save, manage their money and plan. Copyright 2000 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Division for Global Mission E-mail us if you have questions or comments.