On Tuesday, July 29th, at around 4:00 PM, a fire broke out at the ZASO Orphanage in Zanzibar.

Thankfully, no one was injured, but one of the main residential buildings was badly damaged. Two bunk beds and four mattresses were destroyed in the flames, along with the children’s clothing and personal belongings.

ZASO is home to 47 children living with HIV, providing not only shelter but also critical medical care, emotional support, and a loving community. These children—already vulnerable—have now lost the safety and comfort of their sleeping quarters. Since the fire, they’ve been sleeping on the floor in the small library, outdoor classroom, doctor's office, and even outside in the cold.

This fundraiser will help ZASO recover and provide the children with safe, warm, and dignified living conditions. Funds will go toward:

My name is Natalie, and I’ve been volunteering at ZASO for over a year. I’ve seen firsthand how dedicated the staff are and how resilient, joyful, and full of life the children are, despite the challenges they face. ZASO provides a safe, supportive space for children living with HIV to thrive.

Every donation makes a difference. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page to help us spread the word.

Thank you for your compassion and support.

UPDATE AUGUST 9th 2025

Thanks to your incredible generosity, we have officially raised all the funds needed for the reconstruction of ZASO Orphanage after the fire.

Your kindness means the children will soon have a safe and welcoming home again.

Any additional donations we receive from this point forward will go directly towards the upkeep and daily needs of the orphanage, ensuring it remains a place of comfort, care, and hope.

From the bottom of our hearts — thank you for making this possible.