Community Care and Support Project, Nebbi District, Uganda
Challenge:
The Dei Post Test Club has operated for many years in rural northwest Uganda. Established by local community members, the group was set up on the shores of Lake Albert in response to rising numbers of its people affected by HIV/AIDS. A village level support network, the club allows membership to anyone who has undergone testing for the virus. Over the past number of years, the group has also started a revolving fund amongst themselves. These funds provide for funerals and the support of families of previous members, many of whom may not have been able to cope without such a service. Unfortunately, the group is not yet sustainable.
Action:
Funding provided by gorta will centre on providing for the sustainability of the Post Test Club. Focus will be primarily given to nutritional education designed to maintain the health of the club members. The project also provides and equips an office space to be used as a base for the club. An additional loan booster fund will be launched in conjuntcion with the current fund to allow for further investment. Training in income generation management skills will complement this fund.
Benefits:
This project is designed to improve the quality of health of the club members. Maintaining health will also ensure community members’ ability to engage in productive activities and allow them to provide for their families. The initiative will strengthen community care and support for orphans, vulnerable children and persons living with HIV/AIDS. The loan booster fund and skills training will increase the number of businesses started. By engaging in profitable businesses, club members can increase the income of their families. Widening the loan size and enhancing entrepreneurial skills, members can diversify their livelihoods.
