Singing, dancing, hugs – and right in the middle of it all, women clutching their vouchers tightly. For the widows of the St. Monica Village cooperative in Nyabondo, the distribution of prizes from Dentists for Africa’s Christmas raffle is a very special moment every year. The raffle was held for the tenth time this year – and set a new record in this anniversary year: 24,306 euros were raised – more than ever before! 836 widows benefited from the proceeds.
“The members of the cooperative actually look forward to this day all year round,” says project manager Katharina Weiland-Zejewski. Every widow associates a very personal wish with the raffle. “For one, it’s a goat, which can be the foundation of a breeding programme and thus a path to financial independence; for another, it’s a blanket for the chilly nights.”
The request for blankets came directly from the poorest members of the cooperative. Many of them sleep in simple corrugated iron huts, where rain and cold are part of everyday life. When the first blankets were handed out, cheers erupted. One winner summed up her gratitude in simple words: “God has seen how I have slept without blankets for decades!”
Donationas change lives
The Christmas raffle deliberately focuses on donations in kind: goats, chickens, seeds, fertiliser and food. These donations not only provide immediate help but also create opportunities for the future. Seeds and fertiliser are enough for a full maize harvest, which can be used to pay school fees. Goats provide milk and offspring, or serve as collateral for microloans.
This year, vouchers for the counselling service were also awarded for the first time. This ensures that psychosocial counselling remains free of charge for widows and young mothers. “Donations in kind are essential, but it is just as important to create space for conversation and emotional support,” emphasises Katharina Weiland-Zejewski.
A heartfelt thank you
The Kenyan side also had some clear words to say: “It’s wonderful – just imagine, nobody in Kenya can give us anything, the gifts were huge, we appreciate everything, and we thank everyone who wishes us well!” wrote Rhoda Ogada, manager of the widows’ cooperative, after the distribution.
This record is, above all, a sign of trust. Dentists for Africa would like to express its heartfelt thanks to all donors whose commitment has brought hope, dignity and new prospects.
👉🏽 The widows’ joy is even more palable in Katharina Weiland-Zejewski’s detailed report – you can read it here
If you would like to support the women of St. Monica Village beyond Christmas, you can do so by making a year-round, earmarked donation to the widows’ cooperative – and in doing so, make a lasting difference to their lives: Click here!