Spring is everywhere these days... You can hear it in the way that all the trees whisper in the breeze, and then fall silent, as if holding their breath in anticipation. You can see it in the scores of new baby goats, their bright markings gleaming in the sun. You can smell it when a faint, sweet scent drifts your way from tiny blossoms that cover a few bushes. You can feel it as the sun beats down on your shoulders, reminding you that summer is just around the corner. Yes, spring is here - however brief it may be.
I leave on Sunday for the Stomp Out Malaria bootcamp in Senegal! All the last stubborn details are falling (or being dragged) into place, and tub it's off I go! I'm so excited about this opportunity!
Before I leave, I'd like to take this opportunity to ask for your help, on behalf of my friend Olga. But first, let me back up...
Teenage pregnancy is an astronomical problem in Namibia, particularly in my region. More than 30% of 12-19 year olds in my area will fall pregnant. Once that happens, their future is significantly impacted. While they are permitted to attend school after delivery, many of them aren't able to, for financial reasons.
My friend Olga is one of those girls. She is in 7th grade, and now has a beautiful 3 week old daughter named Indi. Olga's grades were very good for term 1 & 2, even in the late stages of her pregnancy.
Through some visits with her, she's expressed a desire to finish grade 7 and attempt to apply for grade 8 at a nearby school. Together, we've found a young woman in the village who is willing to care for Indi during the day for the price of N$300 (approximately 30 USD) a month, for the remaining 3 months of this school year.
So, here's where I ask for your help. Is anyone interested in sponsoring a bright young mother as she works upwards finishing her education? This is the first step of many, to be sure - but finishing grade 7 will make her eligible for secondary school, and open up many future possibilities.
I hope you'll think about it today, and consider helping. Thanks guys!
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