Www.Gracevilla.Org

My name is Ruth Kendegye Ndyabahika.

Thirteen years ago, after working for several years in the field of child psychology, I made a life-changing decision and moved to the hills of Kabale, Uganda, to start a small, loving safe home for girls who urgently need it.

Today as I walk through our home — past the girls studying, giggling, singing, washing dishes, simply being in our beautiful permanent home, I often think of the many acts of generosity and support of my friends, family and supporters through whom Grace Villa grew, from 6 borrowed beds, a charcoal stove and 2 borrowed pans in a small rented house. The laughter, the victories, the hundreds of girls who now call Grace Villa home, are all evidence of what can happen when amazing community joins hands to support a good cause.

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Today we are the only government-approved home for at-risk girls in Kabale District. We work closely with child protection systems such as the Police, Probation, and Court to receive and protect at-risk children, and provide a home, refuge, and a place of healing. Many arrive carrying trauma no child should bear. I have watched girls who arrived quiet and afraid grow into confident young women - university grads, excelling students, skilled artisans, youth leaders, athletes, employees, mentors to others, and we even had a wedding last year!

Over the last 13 years we have supported hundreds of girls through:

• Safe residential care

• Education and school sponsorship

• Medical care and trauma-informed support

• Skills training and empowerment programs

Today we have 35 children in residence and over 400 children in our programs. And every month, more girls are referred to us who need food, medical care, school fees, protection, and above all, a place to belong.

This fundraiser is about keeping our doors open, and opening them wider. Your support will help us provide:

• Daily meals and basic care

• Medical treatment for vulnerable children

• Education and school supplies. We pay school fees for 215 girls who receive a strong education from Kindergarten through University.

• A safe, loving environment where girls can heal and thrive

and so much more.

If you are reading this, I believe it is not by accident. Whether you are able to give, share, or pray, you are helping to protect a child’s future.

From my heart, and on behalf of our Staff, Board and all the girls of Grace Villa…thank you for standing with us. And please consider sharing this fundraiser. By sharing, you may help this story reach someone who is looking for a charity to support! God Bless You.

-WE RISE BY LIFTING OTHERS