APRIL 2021 NEWSLETTER-SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM UPDATE

We are happy to report that Covid-19 restrictions in Uganda have been lifted to allow the Scholarship Program students previously enrolled in college or trade school to return to campus. The closures will delay the graduation of our scholars by several months, but our students are staying positive and are very grateful to be back in school.

And there is more exciting news! Many of you generously donated to our Scholarship Program at last fall's Virtual Fundraiser. All eight of these deserving students are now able to finish their last year of secondary school, and have begun the enrollment process for their post-secondary education. In addition, another student has been approved for the Scholarship Program (see below). We look forward to blessing all nine students with the gift of higher learning - six students working in community college and three students in business and vocational school.

We at Align feel privileged to play a part in God's plan to equip these students and put them on a path that will allow them to live a life of dignity - all because of your generosity. Thank you for your continued support!

A LIFE CHANGED FOREVER - Godfrey Sekitto

You may remember Godfrey Sekitto, one of our past Life Home Children. It was seven years ago that our BPC (Bombo Pentecostal Church) partners in Uganda found Godfrey and his three younger siblings abandoned and struggling to survive on their own. Godfrey is beyond excited to finally receive his certification as a motor mechanic from Gombe Community Polytechnic Trade School. He is one of the kindest and most humble young men we've met. We look forward to watching how Godfrey blesses others with the gifts God has given him.

Godfrey helping sister Scholastica get ready for school in 2014
Godfrey getting little sister, Scholastica, ready for school in 2014.

Godfrey today!

MEET OUR NEWEST SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT
Allen Nakijoba

Allen is a sixteen year old HIV+ young lady who was selected for Align's Child Sponsorship Program as a little girl. Up until then, her HIV+ single mother struggled to keep Allen and her two sisters fed and in school due to her own lack of education and poor health. With the support of her sponsors and the care of our BPC partners, Allen was enrolled in school, provided daily nourishment and HIV medication, and received counseling to address the stigma she felt from being HIV+. She is now completing her secondary education at Bombo Donela High, and is an active member of Bombo Pentecostal Church where she serves in the Dance and Choir Ministries.

Allen has become a positive influence and testament of God's care to other children in the community, often sharing her story to give others hope. She will be attending Lady Valeria Vocational & Business College where she will be studying toward her diploma in Early Child Development. Allen is eager to be a light to young children, and offer the encouragement and care she received in our Sponsorship Program.

Apr 14, 2021