Children in Uganda see benefits of Caledon's generosity

Half-way around the world, school children in Africa are jumping for joy, thanks to the generosity of some Caledon students.

Caledon Central Public School raised roughly $3,000 to build a school in Tekera, Uganda. They began their efforts in September of 2006 and held many fundraisers to collect the funds.

Shortly after the Caledon school had committed funds, a school in Holland, through Dutch volunteers, decided they wanted to participate as well. Combining the donations made it possible for the project to build a beautiful, four-room school which far exceeded the group's original plan, according to Brigitte Daley. The new structure now accommodates 175 children, who used to walk some four kilometres to the the closest school in a nearby village.

"The community of Tekera is so appreciative of this change in their children's future. They had been packing 170 children of grades 1 to 5 into 2 small classrooms or under a tree. Now, they have lots of room and each grade has their own classroom. The conditions necessary for learning are now there. The caregivers pay a modest school fee to assist us in buying supplies. We have been able to hire some good teachers as well. At the moment we are fund-raising to maintain their salaries.

"My husband I want to thank the citizens of Caledon for their generosity. We want the community of Caledon to realize what they have built and what impact in has already made in so many children's lives. It's heartwarming to see a community embracing another community in need."

Recently, CTV news ran a segment about the project written by Murray Oliver who lives in Uganda.

For more information on the project, visit www.ugandavillage.org.