40 caregivers of children under Wells of Hope care were engaged in a 2 day workshop (15th – 16th August) at the secretariat with the themeGood Health Practices, A Strategy Towards Livelihoods/Parenting. It was the second meeting following the one held early this year in January.
The meeting was kicked off with devotions where some of the formerly incarcerated people shared about grateful they are to God and Wells of Hope; “All things are possible with God; I never thought that I would be standing before you today. I thank God that I was acquitted despite spending 15 years in prison,” James (not real name) testified.
The caregivers were engaged in sessions like HCT (HIV Counseling and Testing), farming and parenting. The head teachers encouraged the caregivers to be good role models to their children and be exemplary; “Charity begins at home. As parents, it’s our role to instill good morals among our children,”Charles Ssenoga, Wells of Hope High School head teacher shared.
During the HCT session, the caregivers were encouraged to test for HIV as wells as general medical check-ups,be faithful to their spouses& use condoms.Those living positively were encouraged to take ARVs &adhere to treatment.
“If you want to change your life, the 2Ws (What, Where) and How depend on you,” William Lubanga from Luna Mixed farm cautioned the caregivers. He shared about poultry, piggery and gardening (growing vegetables). He encouraged them to utilize the available resources they have to make a change in their lives.
The caregivers had a very interactive session about parenting; “As parents, we’re the first role models to our children; they learn from what we say and do,” Susan Mutebi Matte from Signature Pieces shared.
Phiona Ssenoga from Signature Pieces cautioned about the caregivers about the way they carry themselves or live and what kind of example they are to their children; “Every parent needs to help their children to correct mistakes.And after this, you can reward them. Bad manners have bad rewards while good manners have good rewards,” she said.
After the workshop, the caregivers happily shared some of their lessons; “I’ve learnt to grow greens even from a small area; how to treat hens using herbs and Ash. I now believe that I can make pesticides and fertilizers locally; then sell them and get money some of which I can save in our Hope SACCO,”Annet one of the caregivers shared.
We thank all our sponsors for their continued support towards families with loved ones in prison.
