How can we really describe the impact Mwana has had on our lives? That's difficult to do concisely. Over the years we have continued to learn what ethical orphan care really means. We are thankful for Mwana; an organization that has helped us in much of our learning, a group of people who we look up to, children that we adore, a home that means love, and in a country that is beautiful and full of amazing people. The mamas and papas at Mwana pour their lives into ensuring that each child feels loved, respected, unique and cared for. 

We love watching each milestone celebrated: the little things noticed and the celebration of each image bearer of Christ. The sounds of Mwana are the comfort of a loving home. Laughter, tears, playful screams on the playground, bruised knees and bandaids from a good day of fun and childhood. Children learn to disagree and say they are sorry; time is spent in prayer; bottles and naps are lovingly taken; storytime and cuddles are part of every day, and there are always wonderful smells coming out of the kitchen for mealtime. We are so lucky that we have had the chance to spend time with our friends at Mwana and eat the food they prepare. Not only is it some of the best food in the world, but the mamas who prepare it make you feel like you are part of their family. We all know food and smells can make you feel loved and cared for in a unique way that says "pull up a chair and talk and tell me all your thoughts." That's the feel at Mwana - mealtime is a fun, joyful, wonderful time. The kitchen staff ensures that. And every child deserves that feeling...after a full day of play, the smell of a baked bread wafting from the kitchen, prepared with hands that love you and want you to feel special, knowing the meal was made with you in mind.

We are fundraising for salaries for the COOKING TEAM! The Mwana men and women who are part of the kitchen staff work tirelessly all throughout each day preparing homemade breads, nutritious stews, hearty dinners and fresh produce snacks for the Mwana children. Providing vulnerable men and women with employment like this is one of the key ways to preserve families in orphan prevention.