Hello from Africa,
I am thrilled to update you with the progress from Uganda on the vision of Gem Village becoming a reality. It has been over three years since we shared the vision to purchase the land for Gem Village. You gave and gave and gave and two years ago we purchased 88 acres of beautiful land with rich soil to provide for food for our Gems.
Many of you joined and others continued to believe in the dream of Gem Village, a 100% handicap accessible village for the special needs orphans and vulnerable children in Uganda. Two days ago, Josh and I had the opportunity to meet with EMI, our missionary engineers and architects, and the contractor and his team. Picture below!
EMI provides tremendous oversight and attention to detail. We discussed many details and have a great working relationship with everyone involved! We are 22 weeks into the building process with only 14 weeks to go. The building is currently only 2 weeks behind schedule, which if you know the “African Way” is incredible! The target is to move in by September and we will keep you informed as to how it all works out.
Currently, three homes are in the process of being built, each of which will at this time house up to 15 children. We do need a 4th home immediately but can get by with the 3 if necessary. The cost of each home with infrastructure is $100,000.
Medical Center: We have placed the Medical Center on hold but will add the roof to protect the building from the elements. Our first priority is building the homes to get the children out of Kampala to the healthy air in the country. We will finish the Medical Clinic as funds become available.
Matching Grant: As you know, we have a $60,000 matching grant from a foundation in California. We want to thank you for continuing to give so generously as over $30,000 has already been given with two more months remaining on the grant to raise the final $30,000.
We still have some additional funds to raise, but we are thrilled with the progress. What once seemed like just a dream is becoming a reality as Gem Village rises from the African dust!
Any amount given toward Gem Village will still be matched for the next two months! No amount is too small!
Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts!
Dwight & Linny and Josh & Emma
