When Mwanzo began, one of the primary needs was for daycare so that mothers, and grandmothers could do subsistence farming, and catering while the children they were raising were safely cared for. These women simply could not work to feed their families without childcare.
As of January, this year, we have grades 1-8 filling the Mwanzo Wetu Center of Excellence Academy (MWCEA.) This means that the daycare, or “baby class” which had been in this building as well as grades 1-7 now had to move into the building you see on the right of this photo. This building has the kitchen/dining area and two classrooms where, the pre-primary1 and pre-primary 2 classes were held last year. Now that we have eight grades in MWCEA, the baby class is squeezing into the building on the right. This is just one of the many reasons why our new community center is needed. With your support we embarked on this journey this past year.
The work was almost entirely done by hand, but with persistence and dedication, laying the foundation soon began.
The stones were shaped by hand, and soon the building began to rise.
Loyce was often onsite observing and encouraging the workmen.
By the end of the summer, the first story ceiling was constructed.
This was her view the day before she returned to Seattle.
Since some phase one funds remained, the steel window frames and doors were installed after Loyce returned to Seattle.
Now we are ready to begin with phases two and three (out of four.)
When finished, the community center will provide space for essential services so that Rabuor and her surrounding communities can thrive. (10,000 people live within a 5 km radius of Rabuor.)
- Internet access will allow people to connect with job and government programs information.
- Health care will be available in partnership with Chulaimbo Health Center.
- The meeting room will host agricultural trainings, savings and loan group sessions, health education, and PTA meetings.