WHAT IS THE OVC PROGRAMME?
The Isubilo Orphans and Vunerable Childrens (OVC) programme gives
"Hope for the future" to many families who are victims of AIDS.
Some basic facts about life in Zambia
- Zambia has the highest proportion of AIDS orphans in the world
- Typical life expectancy is 34 years
- One teacher dies weekly in the 'Copper belt' region
- Ndola has a population of one million
- Every day 65 people die of AIDS in Ndola
Our aim
To give physical and spiritual help to people in the townships around Ndola, the third largest city in Zambia. The current programme includes home-based care, medical and dental centres, hospice care and family support for orphans. There is a strong emphasis on self help, supported by training in HIV prevention and education for the increasing number of AIDS victims and their families.
What is needed?
These, and many other children are desperate for support that will guarantee them a basic education and ease the daily worry of where their food is coming from. Some are not attending school while others are, but risk being asked to leave because they cannot afford uniform, shoes, school fees, books etc.
You can make a difference
Isubilo is addressing health, nutritional and educational needs for the most vulnerable children in the Ndola area.
What are the main aims of this child support programme?
Isubilo is committed to ensuring that children remain integrated within their local community. Assistance is therefore given both directly to children and by strengthening their extended families.
Children will be given
An education, regular food and health care plus essential life skills, and guidance in social and spiritual development.
How are the children chosen?
These children come from very poor families. Local volunteers visit families in the community to assess their needs, and children who seem to be vulnerable are revisited and their details are taken. Head teachers from the 14 local schools are also encouraged to refer any children who are struggling to afford food, school fees or uniform. They are then visited by a volunteer. At present nearly all children registered with us are either single or double orphans, but all needy children are considered for support.
How can I support these children?
You can give either a single sum or on a regular basis. Regular donations ensure a more effective use of the funds. As little as £20.00 approx a month will cover the cost of supporting one child.
This will include:
- Good dietary supplements as needed.
- Expenses for schooling (uniform, school fees and stationery).
- Medicine and/or treatment if needed from the Isubilo pharmacy and clinic.
- Seed, fertiliser and advice for their household to start their own vegetable garden.
A small proportion will also be used to:
Introduce a programme of life skills and AIDS awareness (assisted by Isubilo's drama group) to educate children in essential health and social skills.
Train volunteers from local churches to run after-school activity clubs and to help with homework.
How much of the money will actually reach the children?
We are committed to keeping administration costs at a minimum in order to ensure that these children benefit as much as possible from your donation. You can increase your gift by donating through Gift Aid.
How will I be kept informed?
There are regular updates on the programme and stories of the children that have been helped by email or post.
If you have any queries regarding this child support programme
or if you would like to make a donation, please complete the form which can be found and printed off by clicking this link.For more information on the OVC programme contact
Tim and Jenny Buzzard
Kennel Cottage, East Mascalls Lane, Lindfield, West Sussex RH16 2QN
Tel: +44(0)1444 483 420
Email: tim.buzzard@virgin.net
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