WHAT IS THE STARFISH PROGRAMME?

A personal educational sponsorship plan for single young mothers or children at risk in Uganda

WHAT MAKES THIS DIFFERENT THAN OTHER SPONSORSHIP PROGRAMS?

MANY sponsorship programs are doing great things throughout the world and are most all needed. We are small on purpose. We desire to engage those who don’t think they can make a difference or who cannot afford much. In addition, a youth is not put in school until a sponsor commits. There is no large pot.  Because we are small we are able to follow each child and make adjustments along the way that will personally benefit one at a time…

WHO IS IN CHARGE OF STARFISH PROGRAMME?

It is a partnership with Youth for Christ Uganda and how101 (help our world one on one).  how101 manages the Starfish Programme in the U.S.

HOW ARE YOUTH SELECTED?

YFC Uganda staff take note of bright young mothers who come through Mirembe House. After their baby is older, they are encouraged to apply for the program.  Or, if a young mother is not able to return to school, she is encouraged to apply for her child once he/she  is old enough for pre-school. How101 staff and Starfish staff interview and screen candidates each year while they how101 staff are in Uganda.

HOW MANY ARE SELECTED?

Generally around 10-20 per year.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A CHILD IS DONE WITH SCHOOL?

Often the sponsor will send one final monetary gift which can be used for start-up in a small business or put toward sustenance while applying for jobs.

WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE?

We have learned much from the beginning of this program. One is that success is not necessarily measured in finishing and graduating at the top!

2 of 5 young mothers may not make it due to circumstances such as home and peer pressure, mental illness or emotional duress, etc.  HOWEVER, what we do know is that no matter how long a young mother stays in the program, she is changed. Her countenance, her confidence and esteem are forever altered, in part, from knowing there is someone – somewhere that knows her name and is cheering her on from a distance!

On the other hand, we can happily say that for children the “success rate” is nearly 100%. They are head and shoulders above other poverty-riddled kids in the same position.  They are happy and confident and all work so hard in school! Occasionally we have had to pay extra attention to kids who are in crisis family situations and make adjustments.

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THE STARFISH PROGRAMME?

Read the full history here

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

• $75/month sponsors a mum and child

• $40/month sponsors a child/youth

• $50/month sponsors a mum/youth in trade/vocational school

To be considered for sponsorship, email Susan at starfishprogramme@gmail.com