Christmas Capital

CHRISTMAS CAPITAL

At this time of year, we are encouraged to reflect.  Many of us have good reason to be thankful for the security in our lives and take time out to consider those who have so little that their basic human existence is challenged every day. Here is Ssebowa, a young boy who lives in the Kosovo slum in Kampala, who has the good fortune to be known to a Ugandan community group called CEFOVID that works in partnership with HUGS.

The soiled piece of foam, he stands in front of, is his bed. His house, and his neighbour’s houses, are frequently flooded by polluted water, and everyone’s beds are soaked. Rather than being a place of comfort and safety his bed is a health hazard.

Through your generosity, HUGS is going to change his future. Capitalising on his family’s ingenuity and drive we are going to invest in his Human Capital.  Human Capital is defined as the knowledge, skills, and health that people accumulate throughout their lives, enabling them to realise there potential.  HUGS is investing in a clean water supply for his family, an income for his mother and a quality education at a school outside the city, where he will receive two nutritious meals a day and have a safe place to learn and play. (below is the new school with construction paused for Christmas)

The effect of Human Capital is obvious. It is expressed in many ways.  The most powerful is the ability to refuse to be dominated.  One day Ssebowa will be able to stand tall and say, ‘That’s not good enough, I am worth more than that’,  ‘I have a right to be respected’,  ‘I have choice and I will do what is best for me and my loved ones’.

For now, Ssebowa is delighted with the new mattress which the Mulchand Foundation kindly donated, through HUGS, to him and 100 other families.  It came with a pillow and a waterproof cover. He’s also lucky enough to have an older brother to help him carry it home.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Here are a few smiles to warm your heart during this reflective time of year.

Merry Christmas. 

Richard Bircher

HUGS Chair