Parents will entertain and educate their children with any resources on hand.
“You find parents (in developing countries) making their own play materials,” said Jolly Nyeko, a Ugandan who started the charity Action for Children. “They make toys out of banana fibres – they use whatever they have available.”
Nyeko, now completing a PhD in early childhood development at the University of Victoria, aims to give Uganadan kids at risk more resources by raising money and awareness through community events such as the annual garden festival, hosted by The Jolly Nyeko Foundation Canada.
Since its inception 15 years ago, Action for Children continues to sponsor 15,000 children daily through childcare and education programs. The Foundation supports Action for Children primarily through donations to the Jolly Children’s Educational Centre in Masuliita, Uganda, where a new library and sports ground are top priorities.
The two major projects come with a nearly $40,000-price tag. The local charity also sponsors individual student enrolment.
The Jolly Nyeko Foundation of Canada’s Third Annual Garden Festival takes place Sunday (July 10) from 1-4 p.m. at 3911 Hobbs St. and features a silent auction, bistro, massage, refreshments, and jewelry and Ugandan crafts for sale. The afternoon in the garden also features plant sales and gardening tips from Cannor Nursery staff.
nnorth@saanichnews.com