It was almost two years ago that I entered Yiddiddiya School for the first time and experienced all the smiles, hugs, and excitement from the sweet students there.
Almost two years ago, I met Jemanesh for the first time (who runs the school) and asked her 'What do you need' and she answered that they needed a lunch program.
So in two years, we have started a 501c3 nonprofit, raised thousands of dollars to pay the start up of a food program (plates, bowls, etc) and have raised enough to keep these kids fed. When everything was shut down in 2020, Jemanesh still provided food to not only the kids who were struggling with hunger, but their families too.
I leave on Saturday 3/27/21 to fly back to Ethiopia. A lot of crazy stuff has happened in the two years since I've been there (you know...like a global pandemic), but a lot of awesome stuff has happened too.
The kids are eating. They are eating every day.
The kids are growing. Yabez (our son's Ethiopian brother) has grown so much since starting at this school that we've had to get him a new uniform.
People are giving toward this organization so much that it blows me away! We're doing a fundraiser at our elementary school for FTF and KIDS are giving their own money because they see the need and feel drawn to help kids who are just like them. One fifth grader told me that he was bringing in $50--and that half of it was his own money. That is SO impressive!
Jemanesh asked if I could bring her a keyboard so she could integrate music into the school. I threw it out to some friends and a keyboard was donated right away (I actually had to choose from two!). She also wanted a laptop so she could keep better school records, which was also donated right away.
I can't wait to see these kids again. I wish all of you could see these kids because they're awesome. They are so excited to be in school (a lot of kids in this area of the country have already dropped out of school by the age of 9 or 10 because they have to work). I am excited for all of you who have kept them in school.
Thank you so much for all your support. I will update you as soon as I can!
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