Christmas gifts changing lives

After raising over £3,000 in its alternative Christmas gifts appeal, Itambira Island Seeds of Hope have been busy distributing livestock, household items and other supplies to the  community in the Bunyonyi Lake area in South West Uganda.

Founder Sally Botteley said:

“Thank you so much to those who donated money for Christmas gifts to Itambira Island Seeds of Hope, bringing hope and love to families around Lake Bunyonyi.

“Over £3,000 was donated!

“The gifts are already being distributed and bringing much joy”

The appeal invited donors to gift money to be used on specific gifts, ranging from agricultural tools to water tanks. Options included:

  • Livestock (chickens, rabbits, goats) and seeds as families in the area rely on growing their own crops for sustenance as well as for sale
  • Household equipment such as cleaning essentials, jerry cans for water collection, cooking equipment; as well as mattresses and blankets for increasing warmth and comfort
  • School books pens and pencils –  a class of 48 in a village school could be equipped for just £15

The pictures show just some of the donations that were made through the generosity of many people.

Delivery of these gifts can transform the lives of families around Lake Bunyonyi through Itambira Island Seeds of Hope; providing comfort and potential to create their own produce to eat and sell.

The COVID pandemic has presented severe challenges to the area of South West Uganda served by Itambira Island Trust. Many have been unable to work or earn as they normally would, bringing economic and financial hardship. Children have only just returned to school after nearly 2 years without an education.

Charity and Community

Itambira Island Seeds of Hope is a not for profit Community based Organisation in SW Uganda partnering with Itambira Island Trust a UK registered charity.

We work with communities surrounding Lake Bunyonyi through a variety of projects designed to improve their livelihood, including training courses, water tanks, and other initiatives.

All profit from tourism goes to support our local community projects.

Despite the challenges of the global pandemic, Itambira Island Seeds of Hope have been determined to continue the charity and community work as much as is safe and possible, adapting our activities as required in the challenging environment.

The mission of Itambira Island Seeds of Hope is to provide the communities around Lake Bunyonyi with opportunities for learning with the aim of transforming their lives physically, economically and spiritually.

Itambira Island

Itambira Island offers a unique opportunity to stay on Lake Bunyonyi. Day visitors are welcome and overnight guests can choose to stay in colourful en-suite treehouses or roundhouses with a lake view. We also offer budget accommodation and a cottage which is ideal for families or groups.

Our restaurant overlooking Lake Bunyonyi serves local and international food. We also offer wood-fired pizza and run regular barbecues. Sit by the firepit and watch the sun go down!

Conferences and events are our speciality.

Registered Charity

Itambira Island is also home to the Seeds of Hope project and all profit supports our local community training courses and other initiatives.

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