A Reflection From Teacher Stella

When the President of Uganda announced the abrupt closure of schools in Uganda on March 20, 2020, trust me when I say that we didn't see this coming. We all thought that this virus was all going to end within a few weeks or maybe a month tops, but here we are, still living in uncertainty. Amidst it all, I am thankful to God, who has been so good to us. God continues to provide ... indeed GOD CARES. On behalf of the teachers and students of God Cares Schools, I am honored and humbled to extend our appreciation to the Buyamba Ministry. Thank you so much for standing with us and for not giving up on us; you have reached out to us in many ways, but most importantly, you have prayed for us.

The love you have shown has kept us going and moving; your love is a constant reminder that God cares for His people always. The Buyamba ministry has continued to support the teachers and students even when we know that the virus affected the whole world economically. People are not working, but you continue to extend help.

Many schools in Uganda stopped supporting their teachers, even the "Big" private schools. We have heard from some of these teachers that the administration doesn't check on them, and they don't know what their teachers are going through. The teachers were the most affected people as far as workers are concerned. Many teachers in private schools have not been paid since the government temporarily shut down the schools, but the Buyamba ministry has managed to stand with their staff. This act of care is vast and has impacted the Buyamba staff in so many ways.

One teacher gave his life to Jesus Christ because Buyamba has shown the love of Christ.

Teachers often have many responsibilities. I know of some female teachers who are the breadwinners of their families. Other teachers have extended families looking to them for provision. All of us have to pay rent in our areas of residence, and we couldn't be doing this if we weren't receiving support from Buyamba. The food Buyamba shares with us usually provides for two-three weeks, depending on the family size. This is counted as a blessing, which has motivated teachers and sent them the message that they matter, and that they are in the right place. One teacher gave his life to Jesus Christ because Buyamba has shown the love of Christ. Words can't express how grateful we are, but indeed we are. We bless the Lord for you.

Earlier this week, a teacher in one school in Uganda set himself ablaze because he couldn't keep up with life anymore...he had no means to live. I thank God that none of the staff at God Cares has gone through such despair. God has been so good to us. It reminds us of the time the Israelites were in the desert under the leadership of Moses, but amidst it all, God was so good to them. We are grateful for our beloved sponsors and friends. We also appreciate the Buyamba administration in Uganda, for being faithful stewards because we know very many organizations that have not served their purpose. You have continued taking care of the students, reaching out to them, and giving them support. I was recently talking to one of the students who told me that if it weren't for the food provisions from Buyamba, his family would have died - they were really in a dark place, but God didn't forget them.

Peace be with you all. We are praying that the good Lord blesses the works of your hands. May He prosper you all and give you more life. We are grateful for your support. We love you all, and we are proud to be a part of your lives.