The week ended on a super high note in Chipulukusu yesterday! The women sang, danced, and clapped as they received their certificates. They were especially happy to receive the children's books, construction paper, colored pencils and other supplies to be used as they work with the grieving children. We now have 3 groups organized in different geographical areas. The goals they will pursue with the children is to help them 1) understand their loved one is gone and will not return, 2) recognize there will be changes in their lives that necessitate adaptation, and 3) find ways to remember their loved ones and 'relocate' them in their lives.
The other high point of the day was the arrival of the two bright yellow ZamBikes with one sturdy cart that can carry 250 KG. The whole village turned out when the truck drove up and unloaded its cargo. One of the two men that brought the bikes also held a short training session demonstrating the changing of tires and other maintenance items. The bikes are now safely locked up until a plan is developed next week by the 6-member committee (3 Kafwa and 3 School Board members). Jac and Sherri will be returning to Chipulukusu at the end of next week to touch base with the committee and assist with the final planning.
This morning we left the HillSide Lodge, loaded into an 18 passenger mini van we had chartered and headed to Chingola. We are now settled into the guesthouse where we have stayed in the past and have a 3-member staff to take care of us! We walked to town and are hanging out in the internet cafe while it is storming outside before heading back to the guesthouse. The SIFE students are absolutely amazing in their willingness to adapt, be team players, and just in general pitch in and make this a successful venture. Parents, you can be very proud!
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