Children's prison part 2 of 3

4 years ago, Natalie and Werner Steurbaut came from Belgium to operate a mission group based in Northern Uganda. When they arrived, they discovered that the group was non-existent and that all the monies sent by various groups and individuals had gone missing, along with those who had been in charge.

Through contacts made over the next 2-3 months, they learned of Kampriengisa and went with a German lady to visit. That lady had taken 6 teens out of the center, provided housing and education for them at her own expense. But there were so many more kids who could benefit from living elsewhere!

Natalie and Werner found kids of all ages who survived on intermittent food, under the supervision of only 5 guards/staff for the entire institution. There were not enough beds or mattresses, no mosquito nets, soap or clothes to care for even part of the kids. Girls, about 10% of the population, where housed separately from the boys in a house; the boys were locked together at night in dorms containing up to 50 youngsters of all ages. Open sores, illness and poor health were the norm. While several international non-governmental organizations claimed to visit and provide health care, education, etc, , the visitor log did not reflect any visits in the past 12 months!

With available contacts and resources, Natalie and Werner set about trying to bring some smiles, joy and improvement into the lives of these kids. Once a month they organize a big meal and party, with worship, games, and hugs for any and all kids who want to join in. They have built bridges and relationships with the staff and social workers assigned to the institution. They have gained an understanding of the challenges faced by the staff and have encouraged them to be open to new possibilities. Once a week Natalie goes there with volunteers to provide some dental or medical treatment, offer some small trainings to the older kids and to continue to learn and hear the stories of each one there.

Small and big miracles kept happening, one of the most awesome occurred December 2010.