THREE children in Zambia have been given a fresh start following a grant from Pangbourne Rotary Club.
Earlier this year, the Rotarians were addressed by Amelia Archer of the JDO Foundation, an educational charity that supports a school in the African nation.
As a result, the Club decided to donate £1,000 directly to the school, and within three days, it had been put into use.
One child, who had been awaiting surgery for 10 years, was taken to hospital for medical treatment.
Another two, who have hearing impairments, were enrolled into a specialist school to help them learn sign language and life skills, as well as academic pursuits.
The school has capacity for 30 students, with five of them sponsored.
Its director told the Rotary Club support has enabled them to help orphans and vulnerable children access medical support, go to boarding schools and access basic needs such as hostels, clothing, feeding, counselling and physiotherapy.
They are fundraising for a permanent physiotherapist and a minibus to help with school transport, while four pupils need wheelchairs.
“We take this a rare opportunity to have benefited from such a generous Rotary club and this has made us focus more on helping the disabled children,” the director wrote.
“It’s a dream come true for the children with disabilities, our sincere thanks to everyone in the club and all who are linked to your success.”
Brian Davies, the Rotary club’s president, said: “This was a brilliant result, led by Macolm Sandham, our Community Service lead, which makes us all proud to be members of Pangbourne Rotary Club.
“The donation is made possible by the generosity of the public who donate at our fund-raising events.
“Our next event will be the Pangbourne Art Exhibition which runs April 18-21.”
For more details, or to join, email: membership@pangbournerotary.org.uk
