By Mayamiko Nyirenda

Mzuzu, October 27, Mana: Association of Women in Media (Awome) Northern Region Chapter Saturday donated assorted items, which included Sugar, cooking oil, laundry soap worth K250, 000.00 to Upendo Children’s Village in Mzuzu City.

Speaking after presenting the donation, General Secretary for the Northern Chapter, Towera Katswiri said that the grouping decided to make the donation having considered numerous challenges the institution faces in its day-to-day operations.

He added that besides the donation, the grouping of the women scribers thought it wise to visit and offer emotional support to children at the facility in response to recent incidents where some children resorted to committing suicide after failing to cope with some challenges.

“You might be aware that at this place there are children from various communities who have gone through circumstances that sometimes make them feel bad about themselves. Therefore, we decided to visit cheer these children so that they feel loved and that they are cared for,” said Katswiri.

We encouraged them to at least share their problems with someone rather than taking their life away when they face stress,” she said.

Director for Upendo Children’s Village, Pastor Floncy Mkisi, acknowledged the need for emotional counselling for the children.

Mkisi said that some children are at the facility not because they are orphans but because of some unpleasant circumstances, they encountered in their parent’s houses.

 “As an orphanage, we face numerous challenges including a shortage of foodstuffs; therefore any kind of assistance towards us is very welcome. We are always pleased to see visitors like you engaging our children in various aspects,” said Mkisi.

Upendo Children’s Village currently hosts over 50 children aged between 2 and 18 years.