Christmas in Zambia

It's almost Christmas in Zambia. And even though the children won't wake up to a snowy scene through their windows, they're stirring just the same. LRPI and volunteers around the world have worked tirelessly to make sure that the Zambian families and children share in the same spirit of the holiday that we all get to experience at our own homes during this time of year.

With the backing of people all over the world, the Earn It Program participants and children in Mufulira will be waking up to presents on their doorsteps. Joseph and Hilda, who help run ENFYS and work in the village, have pledged their own profits and chickens to help feed villagers for Christmas. A local bank in Zambia that works with LRPI has pledged finances to help pay for food and necessities for the children.

Along with Zambians, countless families and individuals here in the U.S. have supported the fund that will bring Christmas to Zambian children in various ways. Steve and his wife Kendra in Florida, requested that their family donate to the children's Christmas fund in Zambia, instead of sending presents to them.

Amber Purdy and her young sons in Ohio raised $100 through a local bake sale. The money will be used to provide new trousers, underwear and shirts to both Earn It Program participants and children of the village.

A high school student, Michalya, also out of Ohio, rallied her fellow students to make over 80 personalized Christmas cards for the children in both Zambia and Tanzania. [Photo on left].

Holly Gardner of 'Holly Gardner Photography' helps to keep the organization running all year by donating 3% of every shoot back to LRPI. This holiday, she also offered clients a discount if they contributed toward the Zambia Christmas Fund. You can see her work and read about her commitment here: http://hollygardner.com/blog/

LRPI would like to thank everyone who helped support the Christmas in Zambia fund this year. From those volunteers mentioned above, to the countless amount of time and energy spent by those not mentioned in this article. On Christmas morning, there will be children awakening and smiling, feeling the warmth, love and kindness of people a world away. Thank you all for continuing to bring this joy to Zambia and Tanzania. You may never quite realize the impact your love has, but it is the most powerful thing in the world.

God Bless and Merry Christmas,
LRPI Team

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