INNISFAIL - A group of Innisfail residents is helping make a difference in Uganda.
Charis Global Community Aid is a local, non-profit organization that provides outreach through various projects, focusing on children and families.
The group has been visiting Uganda since its first trip in 2007. They will be travelling back to the African country from April 12 to 24.
"It has become a part of our lives. This is a passion that we love to do," said Brenda Layden, a member of Charis. "We've seen so many lives changed."
The non-profit organization helps raise money for various projects in Uganda, including those in education, providing water and livestock, clothing, sports equipment, agriculture and hygiene training and education.
"We go to schools and raise funds (to buy) water tanks for schools so they're not having to go to the swamps anymore," said Layden.
Over the years, the group has also worked with the Innisfail Rotary Club's Adopt A Village program in Uganda. This year they are helping out with another Rotary village project.
"This year's (trip to Uganda) is going to (include) a Charis project and a scouting out mission for Rotary's fourth Adopt A Village project," said David Layden, president of the local Rotary club. "The Rotary Club of Masaka in Uganda has selected a village. It is the one they're suggesting the next project takes place in."
Charis Global Community Aid helps improve lives through hands-on experiences, not just on paper, noted Layden.
"Our belief is not just to write a cheque and then we're done. We go, we meet with people, we talk with them and we make sure that the money that was sent is spent on the projects," said Layden. "It's not a handout, it's a hand up."
To help with projects Charis is holding a High Tea Fundraiser on March 19 at the Innisfail Alliance Church.
"We will be having entertainment, some singing. We're going to have china teacups and saucers, with petite sandwiches and scones," said Brenda Layden, noting that David will conduct a PowerPoint presentation and talk about the upcoming Charis trip in April.
"One hundred per cent of the money raised will go towards (Charis) projects," Layden concluded.
For more information or tickets to the High Tea Fundraiser, call Brenda at 403- 391-0668 or Shirley at 403-318-6429 or visit www.charisglobalcommunityaid.org
Brenda Layden, member with Charis Global Community Aid
"We go to schools and raise funds (to buy) water tanks for schools so they're not having to go to the swamps anymore."
