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In the Spring of 2018, one of our partners reached out to ASA in search of sponsorship funds for a woman, “Joan.” During one of his bi-weekly visits to the Katwe slums, our partner became aware of her needs and her plight. “Joan” embodies all of the Hidden Peoples ASA is striving to help: disabled, victim of gender violence, and impacted by severe poverty.
“Joan” has been severely physically disabled since birth and cannot use her arm or leg on the right side. In addition to her disabilities, Joan has been a victim of violence and abuse. Vulnerable, and homeless, she lived in Katwe slums. Sadly, she has been the victim of multiple sexual assaults over a long period of time. She has 5 children as a result of the rapes. They are now in need of support. Currently, the children are safe with ASA’s partner. Joan was there during the school holidays and is now temporarily staying in a Katwe safe house.
ASA works with and supports several local Ugandan organizations, like that of our partner who found Joan. They provide services for vulnerable adults and children. However, all too often, the budgets of small grass-roots organizations in developing countries don’t have excess funds to provide immediate/emergency help in such tragic cases. Upon hearing Joan’s story, ASA has decided to create an emergency fund, which it intends to use the to support cases like that of Joan.
With an emergency fund, ASA would be able to act swiftly to provide funds to support the most vulnerable when they are fleeing extreme hardship or danger. These funds would go towards providing funds for emergency shelter, other basic needs, educational support funds for dependent children, or funds to support initial living expenses - including food and basic needs.
We don't know when a child or other gender violence case like Joan might present itself; but we hope with the generous help of supporters like you, we can build up an emergency fund so funds are readily available for the next emergency.
We hope you will consider a donation today.
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