Giving Children the Future Through Education

Russell Smith and his family know first-hand the plight of HIV impacted children in Uganda.    Visiting first to conduct professional mentorship and training in grant writing for local organization and government leaders, Russell visited clinics, schools and community projects that helped him understand the many challenges these children face.

The result:   the Vanessa Smith Scholarship Fund for HIV impacted children,  named for his teenage daughter.

The fund supports 31 children and for over four years has assisted the same children as they grow and move from primary to secondary school Its helping to ensure an uninterrupted and effective education.

“Words cannot express the joy and happiness you have brought to the lives of these little ones.” 

The entire Smith family (Russell, Daiza, Daniela and Vanessa) traveled to Uganda to meet Scholarship recipients and their parents/guardians face-to-face.   The celebration was exuberant as children performed songs, dances and drama for their new friends from the US.

“Words cannot express the joy and happiness you have brought to the lives of these little ones,” Nurse/Counselor Teddy Alia told the Smiths.

And in their own words:

“I begin by thanking the Almighty Father for saving us up to now.   I thank you for the help that you are giving me through paying my school fees.”   Emmanuel

 “I hope you are fine because I am fine.   I would like to thank you for everything you have supported in my life.  I want to be a nurse.”  Agnes’

 “You came to our lives and your changed them completely since you became our comfort through the love and care you have shown us.   If I was to build you a mountain even if it was a volcano, we would do so in order to show you our love towards your help.  May the Almighty grant you more years to live longer and help more people.”  Deo

Lacking a basic education and managing the impact of HIV on their lives, these children have little hope.

Join the Smiths by providing school scholarships through the CAFI online store and give a child both hope and a future.