Helping to build better futures

In January, GEM Construction (York) Ltd saw their Chairman Mike Green and Director Wendy Green travel to Uganda for three months to undertake volunteering work at Kagando Hospital.

Mike had his building skills put to the test and undertook a number of repairs to dilapidated buildings, while Wendy’s teaching skills enabled her to connect with the local women and children, providing information on a number of areas including nutrition and general hygiene.

In their first week in Uganda, Wendy felt that the Rainbow Room, a little haven where the children in hospital can go and use the donated toys and games, needed to be refurbished and decided that this was a project she wished to undertake. Some of the donated toys and games had never even been seen by the children.

Mike and Wendy proudly completed the project at the end of February, with the help of four volunteer nurses from Belgium; Gust, Emma, Hannah and Lotte. Together they painted the building, both internally and externally, put up bookshelves and installed a clean drinking water supply.

In one day the room attracted over 50 mums, babies and children who were enjoying the fresh air away from the hospital wards, which can be a little cramped. Some lovely dolls and toys were donated from the UK and these were played with everyday. They were a clear favourite with the children - their smiles said it all.

Mike and Wendy also had the opportunity to visit the Rwenzori Women’s Health project, located at the top of a mountain. There is no transport and the only way to get to the top is a one-hour trek up a very steep and narrow footpath - a walk that the villagers do every day to obtain drinking water.

On 2 March, it was Jaja Day at the hospital, a day dedicated to children who have HIV and their parents who are often ostracised from society. The day was spent playing football, cricket, skipping, singing and many other activities. Each person also received two free large-portioned meals which enabled the children to take some of the food home with them.

Mike also spent time installing solar panels to help provide electricity to the area. One of the properties that had the panels installed was for a gentleman called Michael, a single father of two children. Michael has struggled in the community after being diagnosed with leprosy and having to have one of his legs amputated. He said that having the solar panels installed will have a real positive impact on him and his family and will help his children to do their homework.

Mike and Wendy made a real difference during their time at Kagando and have received a couple of very heart-warming ‘thank you’s for their efforts so far.

If you'd like to donate toys or clothes, please send them to:
GEM Construction (York) Ltd,
Construction House,
James Nicolson Link,
York,
YO30 4GR.

GEM will then package the items up and send them to the hospital.

Mike, Wendy and the team helping the locals in Uganda.

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