by Dennis Crull, Organizer
MORE EXCITING NEWS!! Having received donations of $25,760 toward our $41,081 goal, we contracted for installation of the solar electric system Phase 1, which powers the childrens' residence buildings, the activity center, the library and the cow shed (they get milk from their own cows!). We're pleased to tell you that work is now complete and Phase 1 is operational, and none too soon. Since launching this fundraiser, power outages have become more frequent and longer in duration. Since converting from the shaky grid to solar electric, 100% of the orphanage electricity has been provided by the new system, with zero outages, thanks to all of you who gave so generously. SEE THE ATTACHED PHOTOS showing the system being switched on by orphanage director Upendo and a Photons technician, the kids in front of one of the solar panel arrays, and the sign thanking all who made this dream come true. WILL YOU HELP US FINISH THE JOB? Phase 2 will provide solar power to Upendo's home, which includes the orphanage offices, gathering place for holiday celebrations and special occasions, Zoom reading and music sessions and the school departure and return point. Let me close this update with a story and some additional news. First the story. A few hours after the solar power was switched on, the phone at the orphanage started ringing. The government electrical grid went down (again) and all the lights went out -- except at the orphanage. Neighbors were calling to ask what grid they were on that allowed them to have power when everyone else had none. THANK YOU FOR MAKING THAT HAPPEN! And the news? In our original description of this fundraiser, in addition to the impact of the drought on power generation, we also talked about the water shortage. Love Our Tanzania Family recently commissioned a hydrogeological survey, which was conducted by one of Tanzania's most successful drilling companies. We believe we have found water nearby at a depth of 150 meters. We are now accessing the cost to drill a well (they call it a borehole), bring the water up and get it to the orphanage. Stay tuned! THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUING SUPPORT FOR THESE AMAZING KIDS WHO'VE BEEN GIVEN A SECOND CHANCE IN LIFE!