At Shekhinah Orphanage, we recognize that many orphans are cared for by struggling grandmothers and widows. Through our Seeds of Dignity project, we equip these courageous women to become self-sufficient providers. Each beneficiary receives a starter kit containing drought-resistant seeds (maize, beans, and nutrient-rich vegetables), basic farming tools, and training in modern agricultural techniques. The program includes follow-up visits from our agricultural officer to ensure successful harvests and troubleshoot challenges.
The ripple effects are transformative. Take the case of 62-year-old Mama Nalongo, who fosters four orphaned grandchildren. After joining the program last year, her first harvest yielded 800kg of maize—enough to feed her family for eight months, with surplus sold to buy school uniforms and medicine. “This garden is my bank,” she says, showing off her thriving plot. To date, 143 widow-led households have participated, collectively producing over 20 tons of food annually and keeping 327 orphans in stable family environments rather than institutions.
Your support makes this possible. A $50 donation sponsors one widow’s complete agricultural package, including seeds, tools, and training. For these families, it’s not just about food security—it’s about restoring their God-given dignity as providers. As Mama Nalongo puts it: “Now when my grandchildren ask for supper, I can smile while cooking instead of crying with empty hands.”
