The American Red Cross-Jersey Coast Chapter and Sylvia’s Children, a Holmdel-based nonprofit charity organization that seeks to help African orphans, have teamed up to raise money this upcoming holiday season for the Mbiriizi Advanced Primary School in Masaka, Uganda, which consists of 1,000 children between the ages of 4 and 14, of which 267 youngsters are orphans.
According to a press release, officials of the Jersey Coast Chapter decided to partner with Sylvia’s Children after becoming aware of the organization’s mission to feed, clothe, house and educate the hundreds of Ugandan orphans who need help, as most have lost their families and friends due to the AIDS pandemic causing havoc on their countryside.
“We are impressed by the remarkable work already being done by Sylvia’s Children and are honored to contribute to the holiday experience of these students,” said Tara Kelly, CEO of the Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross. “We are also fortunate to have a relationship with the Uganda Red Cross to assist us in our efforts.”
Money raised from this fundraising drive will supply the children with one new shirt and a warm fleece blanket. Both organizations will accept donations of all amounts, from $50 to $5,000; and every $10 will provide a child with a lasting and positive memory of this year’s holiday.
“I am so excited that an organization as prestigious as the Red Cross is willing to help us bring joy and happiness to these children who have so little,” said Sylvia Allen, founder and executive director of Sylvia’s Children. “Last year the children said they just wanted a blanket for Christmas. The Red Cross is making this possible and we are so grateful for their help and their kindness.”
Sylvia’s Children was founded in 2003 after Allen returned from a humanitarian trip to Uganda. The children at the Mbiriizi Advanced Primary School “adopted” her as their honorary grandmother.
According to the press release, Allen saw the ravages the AIDS pandemic had on the community and was compelled to help her newly acquired grandchildren. She founded Sylvia’s Children to feed, clothe and house orphans in Masaka and provide education for as many children as possible.
There are currently 907 students, of which 267 are orphans.
For more information on the American Red Cross-Jersey Coast Chapter, visit www.jerseycoast-redcross.org or call 732- 493-9100. For more information on Sylvia’s Children, visit www.sylviaschildren.org or call 732-946-2711.