One of the treasures of living in Rwanda during this season of time is friendship with Rwandans who have returned after years in exile to personally participate in the development of Rwanda. One person that we particularly enjoy is Chantal Mbanda. She and her husband, Laurent returned permanently last year. Chantal’s story of starting New Hope Home is one of compassion, surprising generosity, and inspiration.
One would have to be blind to not see the tragedy that the events of 1994 brought upon the children of Rwanda. The loss of nearly a million lives turned many children into orphans. Also, the family and community systems were completely torn apart. Recent statistics state that 26% of Rwanda’s children are orphans. Most shocking is the statistic 13% of the households in Rwanda are headed by children. As one walks the streets of Kigali, the number of street children can be astounding. Those with a compassionate heart are left asking the question of what can I do.
Chantal’s story of beginning New Hope Home provides a model that hopefully others will support and follow. Her story is a very personal one. After visiting Rwanda in 2003 the Mbandas decided to move back. Chantal had frequently noticed the street children of Rwanda, and felt a personal responsibility to do something. In 2004 as she was visiting the United States a friend asked, “What is your vision?” As Chantal explained her vision to do something for children, her friend asked her to write a proposal that she could pass on to donors. Shortly afterwards, the funding was discovered to begin. “Start quickly” was the phrase her friend told her as she began. With funding in hand, Chantal purchased a home, acquired furnishings, and began New Hope Home in March 2006.
Chantal’s philosophy of child care is one that emphasizes family and community. It is her belief that children need a home and not an institution. Some of her favorite words to hear from the children of New Hope is “This is my home.” The children of New Hope call the staff mom and aunt. They call one another brother and sister. Displaced children have found not only a home, but a family at New Hope.
Currently, eleven children live at New Hope Home. The home intends to keep the number of children at approximately ten so that each child can feel that they are part of a family. Children enter New Hope under the age of five years old. It is planned for them to live in the home until they have reached an age of independence.
A short time with the children quickly convinces one of the wisdom of Chantal’s philosophy. Each child brings a compelling story. Nine of New Hope’s children are girls. Two are boys. Six are orphans. A brother and sister’s mother is in the last stages of AIDS. Three of the children have teenage mothers incapable of caring for them. Yet, these children are full of smiles, laughter, and warmth. They have found the stability of a home and it is evident in their lives.
New Hope Home is located in the Kicukiro neighborhood of Kigali. Chantal hopes to build at least 4 other homes to house other children in the next 2 years. Currently, four children are on a waiting list to join the newest home that is being built. With the situation of so many orphan children in Rwanda the “Start quickly” advice of her friend is pertinent. The next home is nearing completion.
If you would have interest in supporting New Hope Homes their contacts are 08-430-692 and 08-304938. One would find volunteering with them to be rewarding. Besides their need for funding, they have needs for clothes and toys.
I trust that you will find friendships with Rwandans like Chantal Mbanda and giving of yourselves to Rwandan children as rewarding as we have.
