Liesl Gaesser

I am raising funds to make and send 60 handmade dolls to the children at Buchicha orphanage in Uganda. Several years ago, I learned about the Knitting4Peace movement and their PeacePals, and I fell in love with the idea of praying while I knit. I was also drawn to creating dolls of color, because most of the dolls I saw in stores were caucasian. Since there is no Knitting4Peace group in my city, I modified the PeacePal pattern myself to give the dolls separate legs and outstretched arms. After I shared my knitting online during a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, Oscar from the Buchicha Children's Foundation reached out to me. When I asked whether the children had any toys, I learned they have never had any. That stayed with me deeply. I know these children need food and clothes, and I am grateful that others are helping meet those needs. But I also believe there is a special need in giving each child a doll made just for them, with loving prayers stitched into every part. The funds I raise will help cover the cost of materials, shipping, and my labor to create all 60 dolls and send them safely to Uganda. Please help if you can. Your gift will help bring joy and comfort to these children who have so little. These toys will be physical reminders that there are people in the world who love and care about them.