Creating change in Malawi

As the festive season approaches, it is a good time to reflect on the incredible impact that our supporters have had this year.

Spotlight on Josephine

Josephine, a bright and spirited toddler, is a shining example of the positive change made possible through working side by side with family and community structures in Malawi.

She was referred to Open Arms by Social Welfare after tragically losing her mother, leaving her life at risk and her future uncertain. Her granny was keen to take on her care but couldn't provide or afford the milk she needed to survive. Thanks to the support, guidance and resources provided by Open Arms, her granny was able to take on her care and she is now thriving at home.

She enjoys a strong bond with her granny and extended family, which is so important for her social and emotional development. She really has blossomed into a confident and fun loving child.

As her health and development continue to improve, the team is now working closely with her family to help them achieve self-sufficiency. This crucial step will make sure she can get to school with the ultimate aim of breaking the cycle of poverty and dependency on long-term support.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Open Arms Malawi may be a small charity but with our colleagues in Malawi we have ambitious plans, focused on;

• Saving lives:?After a very successful trial last year, the goal is now to make sure more children can be safely raised at home by their extended families, and that these families are empowered to take on their care. We want to reach 100 families.
• Improving nutrition:?We will trial a sustainable agriculture programme over the next three years that will support families living in extreme poverty. It means that they can have enough food to eat at home, their nutrition will improve and they will also have surplus stocks to generate an income. They will be supported in developing this into a business for the long term.
• Building independence: We want all adults and older children who have been supported by Open Arms to have a successful future and not become reliant on long term aid. We will continue to support school fees, further education, vocational training and business start ups for vulnerable young adults until they can become independent.

Join us

Investment in the locally led team in Malawi will be essential to being able to do this alongside our day to day work of childcare, nursery education and community support. This year we have enjoyed working alongside other organisations operating in this space and we will continue to build on this next year. With the current economic challenges including rising inflation, currency devaluations and exchange rates, strengthening fundraising efforts will be vital.

Thank You

The support received this year has not only helped more children survive their early years but has also strengthened family and community structures in Malawi.

Through this work, we are building resilience and laying foundations for sustainable change that will benefit generations to come.

There is a role to play and a way to get involved for everyone. If this is something you would like to be part of please do get in touch at [email protected].

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