Hi everyone! I thought I would post another cute picture of AJ. His prosthetic visit went well. They will be making him 2 pair of prosthetics to take back to Africa, one to grow into! He is finally settling into his host family. The DR want him here 6 months so he can get up and walking and grow a little more before they make his second pair of legs. I promise to post a picture of him with his legs as soon as he gets them! We are excited for him.
On to orphanage stuff! We will be updating our what we need list this week. I have had several ppl ask and we need to update it with our current needs as donations have been coming in. We have several ppl traveling soon that are taking donations for us and we want to take as much as they can carry. We have been preapproved by the Children Services in Burkina to move forward with the orphanage and they gave us a checklist of things we had to have (roof over play area, dining table and chairs (before you laugh, most ppl in Africa don't have this), places for the nannies to sleep etc) As of today, the roof is done, everything is just about in place in the orphanage so we are hoping the powers in charge will be back out in the next week to give it one final inspect and then they will be referring us children. Due to the Hague and the recent accusations of child trafficking in other countries, there are several countries in Africa tightening the reins on all aspects of adoptions, Burkina is one. I think it is great but it sure adds to what all has to be done. Biba is sending picture of the orphanage with furniture (and roof) this week and who knows maybe next week, we can post pictures of kids.
There has been lots of questions about the adoption process in Burkina, and some ppl are just stirring the pot without checking with the Embassy and the Children's Welfare in Burkina. While FOG will not personally be doing adoption, we do want to know that process. Adoptions are allowed as long as they meet the requirements of Burkina and the US Embassy for visa's. So if you are reading things that seem negative, I would urge you to do some calling of your own (or consider the source). As always, the Internet brings out the "best" in people who can hide behind the computer screen.
We are hopeful that we will be also housing some special needs children too in hopes of finding families for them. If you have any questions about adoption, you can check out the State Dept site and read up on the Hague requirements. Also, I know Kids to Adopt is doing a program in Burkina and has checked out all the requirements so they would also be a great source if you have questions.
Ok, enjoy the pictures. Check back soon for more good news! Also, we are really needing dedicated volunteers who are self motivated and team players to help in several areas. We are praying for YOU! If you feel led to help in any way, pls email me at: ann@untilallhavehomes.org
WE WILL BE OFFICIALLY LAUNCHING OUR SCHOOL SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM JUNE 1. IF YOU CURRENTLY SPONSOR A CHILD AND WOULD LIKE TO DO SO ANOTHER YEAR, PLEASE EMAIL ME. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SCHOOL SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM, STAY TUNED!
"Where there is no vision, the people perish" Please help us reach the people in Burkina by being God's hands and feet!
Ann
