“My involvement is part of what I do – I love the African people and my work with them. The acute poverty and deprivation touches me deeply and I hope that my work gives them some sense of hope,” said Libby.

Libby hopes this year to establish more gardens, install a chicken run, provide more books for schools and more school uniforms, install more water tanks, and definitely expand on the carpentry project which is proving to be so successful.

Many families have to cope on only one meal a day, so the establishment of vegetable gardens means families are able to sustain themselves with produce, and supplement their income from sales of vegetables. Libby has arranged for women to learn to sew and provided sewing machines, so they have become skilled seamstresses. They are now able to clothe themselves and sell their work in the local community. Several have set up their own businesses.

Over many years Libby’s achievements also include setting up a school library, purchasing school uniforms and shoes, providing pencils and paper, paying school fees, paying for some teachers’ assistants, purchasing a school computer, and providing an outdoor jungle gym. AIDS continues to ravage communities. As a result, there are more “children headed” families who are vulnerable and at risk.

Each year Libby pays for the cost of her airfares, the accommodation for her three month stay, and the running costs of a car. Pambula Rotary runs many fundraising events to provide Libby with additional funds for her projects. For example, recently Pambula Rotarian Lee Beatty hosted a Hawaiian Night for 30 at her home, which raised over $1000.

Further local donations are always eagerly sought. If you would like to donate to Libby’s project, please contact Libby on 6495 6850. All monies received are deposited with the African Aids Foundation.

Rosie Young

Publicity

Rotary Club of Pambula Inc.