When a child’s only focus is survival, they don’t have time to dream. They often don’t even know if they’ll have a future to dream about. But when generous supporters make it possible to rescue a child, they not only give them nutritious meals, safe shelter, and love, they also give them their dreams back.
And our Kinship kids have some admirable ones!
Meet Lawrence.
When he was young, he faced the immense heartbreak of losing his mother unexpectedly, leaving him and his sister, Irene, in the care of their blind grandmother. Here is his story:
“Growing up, life was tough. My grandmother faced daily battles with her health, and I often helped her with chores while trying to keep myself and Irene fed. I remember her warm hugs and the stories she told to lift our spirits, but there were many days filled with worry and hunger. Even in our struggles, her love was a constant source of comfort.
As I grew older, the absence of my mother weighed heavily on my heart. I had no memories of her, and my grandmother rarely spoke about her, which left me feeling lost. I longed to understand my past and where I came from, but all I had was my grandmother’s love to hold onto.
When I was about eight, my grandmother’s health deteriorated. She could no longer care for us, and that’s when local council authorities stepped in. They found us a new [home] in Kyengera. The move was daunting, but it offered us a chance at a better life."
A Fresh Start
"The Kyengera [Kinship] family welcomed us with open arms, providing the support we desperately needed. For the first time, I could attend school—a dream I had longed for. It was there that I first learned about police officers—those brave individuals dedicated to protecting and serving the community. Their commitment inspired me deeply.
Despite the new opportunities, I faced my own health problems. I underwent surgeries to fix my belly button and improve my eyesight. The first time I could see clearly was unforgettable; it felt like a whole new world opened up before me. I was incredibly grateful for the support from Kinship United, which gave me a second chance at life.
As I settled into my new life, my dream of becoming a policeman took shape. I wanted to be like those officers who inspired me—helping and protecting others. With every lesson learned in school, my determination grew. I focused on my studies, driven by the hope of making my community a safer place.
With encouragement from my new family and teachers, I became even more dedicated to my education. I [learned] about laws, justice, and the importance of serving others. I am participating in church events, helping those in need and gaining a deeper understanding of the struggles around me. These experiences have fueled my passion even more.
Now, as I prepare for my future, I am determined to wear that police uniform. I want to protect and uplift my community, just like those who are helping me along the way. Thank you for reading!”
Thank You
You’re making Lawrence’s bright smile and big dreams possible. Your support invests in the futures of children like Lawrence who have goals of helping their communities like you helped them. Thank you for your big hearts and dedication to impacting children in need.
Written with Eddie, one of our field team members in Uganda.
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