Over Christmas, it's hot and quiet in Namibia. Those who can spend this time on the cool Atlantic coast or travel to visit relatives on their farms, where families gather for Christmas celebrations. It's a time to unwind, without internet, often without running water, but with family – time to talk, time to spend together. Those who have to stay behind in Okombahe continue to receive an extra meal at Albertina's soup kitchen.
In mid-January, working life resumes – including in Okombahe. Students and teachers return to school, and the new academic year begins. Forty-four children who used to attend soup kitchens are now old enough (from grade 8 onwards) to attend secondary schools in the surrounding area, where they usually have to live in the student dormitories at their own expense. At the state schools, the actual lessons are free up to grade 10, but the dormitories and school uniforms have to be financed. Our association has decided to support these children until they complete their schooling. A year in the dormitory, including school uniform and a school bag, costs approximately €100 per student. These 44 former soup kitchen children can rejoice: their next school year is pre-financed by the Namibia Support Association.
In mid-January, working life resumes – including in Okombahe. Students and teachers return to school, and the new academic year begins. Forty-four children who used to attend soup kitchens are now old enough (from grade 8 onwards) to attend secondary schools in the surrounding area, where they usually have to live in the student dormitories at their own expense. At the state schools, the actual lessons are free up to grade 10, but the dormitories and school uniforms have to be financed. Our association has decided to support these children until they complete their schooling. A year in the dormitory, including school uniform and a school bag, costs approximately €100 per student. These 44 former soup kitchen children can rejoice: their next school year is pre-financed by the Namibia Support Association.
Thank you very much for your donations and for your purchases, food and drinks at our Namibia stands last year, and again now at the Öhringen Christmas market.