Summer 2008 Newsletter

News from Double Joy

We at Double Joy send our warm greetings hoping that you are all fine. Here at Double Joy, all is well.

We had a terrible time at the beginning of the year here in our country after our general elections and our country was at the brink of collapse. All the peace that we had cherished for a long time in our country went to smoke and everybody was panicking. Prices of foodstuffs skyrocketed and we could not be sure what next but God who is always good to His people heard the cries of the innocent and pulled us out of the jaws of the warring giants.

Many thanks to all of you for your hearty prayers for our country at our trying moment. Thanks for your letters of encouragement. We love you so much and thank you very much for your constant support to our institution both financially and in kind which has enabled us to provide all our children both at primary school and post primary to education and all basic needs which would otherwise be a dream.

May God grant you peace and blessings in all your undertakings.

With lots of love and gratitude from all staff and children.

By Stephen Onyang - Manager Double Joy.

Robert's Story

When my mother and father died I found my life very difficult. I was going for grazing and I'd go to the lake to bring water and if I didn't do so my aunt caned me. Sometimes we didn't eat food, we went to bed without supper. I used to wear old and bad clothes. Sometimes we didn't go to school because of fees.

When I came to Double Joy I found my life very easy. I thank the Almighty Father for bringing me to this wonderful and beautiful place. Children eat and bathe every day. Every month children are going for their birthdays.

Now I am 15 years old and am going to do my final examination and I want to join secondary school.

Pen Pals

Robert's (not his real name) story is typical of the children whose lives are transformed by Double Joy. The children love receiving and writing letters, which are often beautifully illustrated. If you'd like to correspond, please write initially Ruth Adhiambo who facilitates the children's correspondence.

Everyclick

I've started using a great new search engine that raises money for charity, every time you search the web. I'm supporting FRIENDS OF DOUBLE JOY . It doesn't cost you a penny, and you can support any UK charity you like. To join me visit: http://www.everyclick.com

Pauline

Treasurer's Update

A very big thanks to all of you, for your generous support of Double Joy. We made a total of £51,614 in 2007, an increase of £14,331 on last year! This has helped greatly in making up for the shortfall in donations from America. We now have 63 supporters who donate by standing order, making a combined sum of £16811 in 2007. We really appreciate those of you who are able to donate in this way as we can be sure of a regular income each month. We were also able to reclaim £6134 through Gift Aid in 2007. Please contact me for a form if you're able to set up a standing order or make a Gift Aid declaration.

Oops!!!!

We did a big plug on standing orders in the last newsletter, but unfortunately I put the wrong bank sort code on the standing order form. So thank you to those of you who, despite this, have now set up a standing order for your patience and persistence!!!

Thanks again for all you're doing. 

Chrissie

Quaker Peace and Social Witness Pay Polytechnic Fees

We were pleased to receive a grant of £4074 from QPSW towards the cost of polytechnic fees, for courses including carpentry, metal work, welding, garment making, mechanics, catering, hairdressing and electronics. This is a big financial commitment for us, but is seen as a priority because it equips these young people to lead independent and productive lives in their community. The grant helps greatly in providing this training.

Obituaries

Nigel Smith

Nigel Smith, a much-liked member of Yealand Quaker Meeting, died recently. For some years he took a keen interest in Double Joy and supported the Meeting's fund-raising events. His family chose Double Joy for donations in his memory.

Sheila Trotter

Sheila, who was a regular donor to Double Joy, died unexpectedly in Thailand in April, aged 55, much-loved sister of Sharon and Hazel and partner Michael. Some of her friends wish to set up a fund in her memory and forward the money to her favorite charity - Double Joy. Details of this should be posted on the website soon.