Restoring Hope: Supporting Elders and Children with Special Needs in Kitgum, Uganda

Volunteer with an elder during food distribution.

In Kitgum, northern Uganda, some of the most vulnerable members of society—destitute elders and children with disabilities—struggle daily to survive. Many have no income, no family to care for them, and no access to essential food or medical support.

To address this, Te-Kworo Foundation launched a social protection project to provide immediate relief. Through food support, medical care, and daily assistance, this initiative has helped bring dignity and stability to some of the most at-risk individuals in the community.

Reaching Those in Desperate Need

In 2024 alone, this project has directly supported:

  • 33 destitute elders (20 women and 13 men) who had no means to access food.

  • 2 children with disabilities in need of long-term care and medical attention.

  • An additional 66 family members and caregivers indirectly impacted through food distributions and support services.

In total, over 100 people have felt the impact of this initiative.

Volunteer with an elder during food distrubution

Fighting Hunger: Providing Food Security for Elders

For many elderly men and women in Kitgum, daily hunger is a painful reality. Without family support or income, survival is uncertain.

To combat food insecurity, Te-Kworo Foundation distributed food supplies in March, June, and October, ensuring elders received essential nourishment. Each recipient was provided with:

  • 10 kilograms of maize flour per month

  • 5 kilograms of beans per month

The food was delivered by local religious leaders and volunteers, ensuring it reached those most in need.

“The food distribution has saved us from starvation. We are grateful for this kindness,” shared one of the beneficiaries.

Life-Saving Medical Care for Children with Disabilities

Access to medical care remains a significant challenge for children with disabilities in rural Uganda. Without proper treatment, minor conditions can escalate into life-threatening complications.

Thanks to this project, Te-Kworo Foundation was able to cover hospital bills, provide essential wound dressings, and fund ongoing medical care for two children. One of the children, suffering from a chronic septic wound, received critical treatment that led to major health improvements.

Providing Shelter and Daily Support for Special Needs Children

For the two children with disabilities under the Foundation’s care, Te-Kworo is more than just a place of support—it is home.

Throughout the year, the Foundation has ensured that they:

  • Have a safe place to live within the organization’s premises.

  • Receive daily meals and essential supplies.

  • Have caregivers providing 24/7 support, even during school holidays.

“Before, these children had nowhere to go. Now, they have food, shelter, and people who care for them,” said a caregiver from the Foundation.

Challenges and Achievements

What We Achieved:

  • Successfully distributed food to 33 destitute elders, preventing starvation.

  • Provided medical treatment and improved the health of children with disabilities.

  • Created a stable, loving home for two children who had no one to care for them.

Challenges Faced:

  • One child required frequent hospital visits due to a serious condition. Thankfully, a medical procedure has since helped reduce their trips to the hospital, improving their health and quality of life.

One of the program’s beneficiaries, a blind elder, receiving food during distribution

A Lifeline of Compassion and Care

While this initiative is a short-term intervention, its impact has been immediate and profound. The gratitude from the elders and children is overwhelming, with many expressing their deep appreciation for the generosity that has allowed them to live with dignity and hope.

“This support has made an incredible difference. Without it, I don’t know how we would have survived,” shared one of the elders.

Te-Kworo Foundation remains committed to walking alongside the most vulnerable, ensuring no one is left behind.

Thank you to everyone who has supported this mission. Your generosity is changing lives.

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