The financial situation for the people in Burundi is currently very challenging! They have experienced 35-40% inflation cumulatively over the last two years. The war in Ukraine, an increase in shipping costs, a rise in energy prices and problems internal to the country have contributed to a significant rise in the cost of living. This combination is having huge impact on the lives of ordinary Burundians. What they can buy and eat is directly affected by this crisis and many are eating one meal a day.
Part of the motivation of Sowing Hope has been a desire to respond in a way that allows folks in Burundi to get skills and tools that allow them to provide for themselves. Our support of local leadership to create earning opportunities is just a small way to respond to this gigantic need. Small but impactful. The sewing school in particular has brought hope to many of the poorest of the poor as well as women who are struggling to support their family.
Sewing School
- Three classes have graduated in January, May and September. About 75 received subsidized sewing machines.
- In May we had to move the school from the classroom that we had been using to another location. Fortunately, Pastor Boniface, our leader in Burundi had a room next to his church that he could put at our disposal. It is smaller than the old one but it has better light and ventilation.
- All classes start with a Bible lesson and prayer.
What students are saying
“This is a gift that keeps on giving!”—from a graduate of the sewing school.
“Learning to sew is my last hope to provide for my family”—from a college graduate who could not find work after looking for 4 years.
“Being disabled, sewing is something I can do to earn money”—from a woman with mobility limitations
Farming Project
After a very successful rice harvest by two different groups of women, we were surprised in that the owners of both plots of land that they were working have decided not to rent the land to us this year. There is a possibility of other crops if land can be rented but for the moment this project is at a standstill.
How you can help
Please pray
- For financial relief for the people of Burundi.
- For available land for the farming project.
Please consider giving for the upcoming graduation of students in the middle of January.
- A gift of $100 subsidizes the purchase of a sewing machine for a graduate.
- A gift of $50 allows us to pay for the set up the formal graduation exercise.
- A gift of $25 helps us pay year-end bonus to the four staff of the school.
Gifts to Sowing Hope can be sent through our website or mailed to us at the address below.
Thank you for your participation in this work through your gifts and prayers. Thank you so very
much for making this possible!
With much gratitude,
Leslie & Tim Boettcher