The UN Campus Joins Hands to Support Vulnerable Groups

By Pontso Gloria Tsoeunyane, Welfare Officer, RSCE

The Welfare Committee recently organized a donation and charity event aimed at supporting marginalized and vulnerable groups in the local Entebbe community. Spearheaded by the Welfare Officer, the initiative garnered widespread support from UN personnel and staff.

The event, which ran from October 26th to November 30th, 2023, aimed to foster partnerships with the local community while promoting UN Entebbe Campus’ visibility. It sought to spread compassion and bring joy and impact to those in need, regardless of age, ethnicity, disability, or gender.

Generous contributions poured in from various sources, including UN personnel, Service Lines, offices, and fellowships, totaling an impressive 6,561,000 UGX. These contributions included a diverse array of items such as assistive tools, clothing, stationery, toys, money, and groceries.

The donations were distributed in two significant lots, each targeting a different set of beneficiaries. The first lot focused on supporting road cleaners, acknowledging their vital yet often overlooked role in urban sustainability. Groceries and essential items worth 3,401,000 UGX were distributed to 55 road cleaners, aiming to address their vulnerable working conditions and promote public health and safety.

The second lot was dedicated to Sure Prospects School, which provides inclusive education for disabled and underprivileged students. Essential items, furniture, and assistive devices totaling 3,160,000 UGX were provided to support the school’s mission of ensuring equitable access to education for all students.

You have encouraged us so much, braille papers are so expensive, you bought them! Many of us with disability come from low earning families. We appreciate the TV screen, as children with hearing impairment can at least learn through visuals and other children will be entertained through this screen. It has been difficult to get all these items to implement inclusive education as we want to, so thank you so much!

- Florence Nayiga, Director and Co-Founder of Sure Prospects School.

The success of the donation drive was a testament to the generosity and compassion of the UN Entebbe community. Moving forward, there is a call for ongoing support to ensure the sustainability of such initiatives and address persistent challenges faced by marginalized groups.

The initiative received widespread acknowledgment and appreciation. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the RSCE Director and senior management, Christian fellowship, HRTMU, OIOS, TSL, OSSL, RFTS, CSL, CPT, and dedicated Welfare Committee members. A special to Ms. Theresa Aciro who has voluntarily dedicated her time and skills. Your commitment and dedication are deeply appreciated and have made a meaningful difference in the lives of the vulnerable and poorest of the poor.