I am not sure what I had in my mind when we visited the East African Mission (EAMO).  I guess in my mind I kept thinking of the reports on TV of orphanages around the world and the bad condition of the care.  I was so nervous to come to EAMO but eager to see children and help as much a I could.  I kept telling Beau jokingly (but not really joking) that we might have to take home a kid if it was really bad.  Then we arrived and we met Ralph and May, also known as Mum and Dad.  They were very modest and reserved but you could immediately feel the warmth of their kindness.  They took the time to give us a tour of the property, tell us about the program and list the basics on how everything runs. Then we met the kids.  Wow!  The kids were all smiles and the sweetest things on earth.  After hearing many of their stories, it is amazing and so touching to see how happy the children are now.  Ralph and May have done an amazing job creating a home for 150 kids.  It is overwhelming to see how much good they have done for these kids. 

After talking with Ralph and May you really understand that this a family and that everyone participates.  The older kids help with the younger kids.  All the kids have chores but they also have free time to play soccer or games.  Every morning at 6:30 am the kids start their day with a run.  Then they are off to school.  Ralph and May are working hard to build new living facilities and to add workshops so the older kids can learn skills for the real world. When we left EAMO, I cried.  I cried because I missed the kids already.  I cried because it was sad and so hard to believe people had done such horrible things to these beautiful kids.  I also left smiling knowing the kids have a better life and have loving parents now.  Thank you Ralph and May for having us in your home and letting us meet your family!With all the hard work Ralph and May do already and the donations they receive, they still could use more.  Kids run through shoes and clothes when they are growing, school supplies get used, and food always runs out fast when you have 150 kids.  I am not trying to sound like an advertisement but this organization couldn’t exist without help.  It is also good to know that the donations go direct to the family and not lost in some gray area that you don’t see how it helps.  If you would like to help please visit their website www.eastafricanmission.org .  They have a sponsor a child program which is very helpful for them.  If you don’t feel comfortable sending money, the kids need shoes, clothes, books and more.  Email Ralph and May to see how you can help.