Castro
GO! Stories Series – September 14, 2011
Back in November 2008, I was in Zambia for my 4th time leading a team of 12 to the House of Faith Orphanage (HOFO). At the time of our arrival there were 18 children living at HOFO and our team was funding and building the 4th home at the project.
One of the opportunities I had during this trip was to accompany Joanne Byrum, the Director at HOFO, to interview the extended family of an Orphan in need. We traveled some distance from the Orphanage where we met Castro and his extended family. I had met Castro’s great uncle Finely earlier in 2008 when we had interviewed him in reference to one of his other great nephews Sibajane; who was the first child received at HOFO.
Much of Castro’s extended family was in attendance as we discussed his situation with his family. Castro had been living with his elderly grandfather in Choma and he just couldn’t care for him any longer. The local family’s resources were stretched with the care of their own children and there wasn’t enough to add another. During our discussion with his family Joanne collected the vital information for Castro. As it neared time to depart Joanne asked Finely if Castro was aware of what the situation was, and that the child was going to be leaving with us. Castro wasn’t aware of the purpose for our visit.
Finely directed Castro to come to him and in two short sentences in Tonga, Castro, this six year old boy, was notified about his new family at HOFO. Castro then left Finely and returned to playing with the other children. As the last details for Castro were collected I walked to the truck and stopped and looked at Castro. With my arms out to receive him, Castro slowly walked toward me as he left behind the only family he ever knew. I bent down to gather him into my arms and took him to the truck. Without a tear Castro seemed accepting of his new destination. He remained on my lap (Uncle Scott) for the duration of the ride back to HOFO.
Upon arrival at HOFO Castro quickly exited the vehicle to be greeted by his new family. Castro integrated well into his new home and family at the Orphanage, and sometimes receives a visit from his extended family who live in the nearby village.
FACT: Global Orphan Relief has invested over $200,000 in developing House of Faith Orphanage in Silembe, Zambia. In addition, our child sponsors we have provided funds required for their care since March 2008. HOFO is now home of 49 children and has the capacity to host 72 Orphans. For more information see www.globalorphanrelief.org.