This is the fourth child

Jeannette Fuller this is the fourth child. This is Emily Lukeine, who Nkineji School took in last, as her father does not educate girls.

Around three years ago, Emily joined Ilpoori school (another school that we support); however, after a week of being there, her father came and removed her from school. Ilpoori does not have boarding facilities, so she could not stay and be safe.

After being kept at home working for two years, she escaped and made her way to Nkineji, which would have been at least a 2-3 hour walk on her own.

Nkineji school took her in, and she has been staying in school ever since, and can now read and write a few words. The school has arranged for her to stay with a cousin away from her father during the holidays so that she is safe.

The school board has been providing basic food and a few personal items; however, with the others that they assist, they cannot afford to keep paying for her. She only has borrowed clothes.

She can’t quite believe that she will now be safe and allowed to stay in school until the end of the year. It’s extremely tough to have to tell someone who has been through so much at such a young age that, as wonderful as it is that she is safe for now, we cannot, as yet, guarantee a sponsor for next year. It’s hard to do this; however, we must manage expectations and be honest with all of the children.

Having said that, she can relax for now and focus on studying, but also have a childhood.

Thank you all so much for this gift you have given her.