The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A Spalding couple have met a child they sponsor during a trip to Uganda.
Rachel and Paul Wilson met five-year-old Blessing for the first-time while on a trip to visit their daughter Emily who is currently volunteering in Africa with charities Mission Direct and Chilli Children.
Rachel and Paul sponsor Blessing through the Compassion UK charity and took the opportunity to meet the five-year-old in her hillside community of Kashenyi.
Rachel (57), who works as a teacher, said: “I knew the day would be an emotional rollercoaster, meeting Blessing was wonderful, a very humbling and moving experience.
“I was introduced to the project staff and project director, Dennis. I was very impressed by the work they do, reaching out to the poorest of the poor in the community and giving children and their families so much hope and practical help.
“Blessing and her father came out to meet us, and it was very emotional to meet face-to-face.
“We got to see their half-built house which Blessing’s parents are currently constructing from mud, and then we went to her grandfather’s home, where the family is temporarily living.
“We gave Blessing and the family some gifts we had brought with us. She was delighted with the two dolls I gave her, complete with hand-knitted outfits.
“I was humbled by the warm welcome and generosity of those we meet who have so little.”
The couple spent a long time playing with Blessing, including playing with bubbles.
The Wilsons’ sponsorship of £25 a month enables Blessing to be part of her local Compassion project.
Rachel continued: “Child sponsorship is very personal. You know the investment you are making each month is helping to change that child’s life by ensuring they have healthcare, education and emotional support.”
