In 2011, the medical team to Tanzania had the tremendous opportunity of ministering to the dental and medical needs to a community of orphans and widows.  While there, our team was motivated to help in other areas as well.  Widows were crushing rocks by hand, and the orphans were unschooled.

Immediately plans were set in place to meet these needs, and programs were established for the Orphan Scholarship Program and the Widows Sustainable Business Program.  MRI provides active mentorship along side local leaders to empower the most disadvantaged poor in creating:

• Networks to promote preventative medical and dental health care
• Sustainable economic opportunity for families
• Educational outreach to orphaned children to maintain pace with their peers.

In one year since inception, the MRI Orphan and Widow Programs have been able to provide a 15 percent increase in household economics as measured by small business incomes and ability to initiate savings.  Scholastic tests for 50 percent of orphans demonstrate marked improvement in English and Science.  General health and hope has improved for both widows and orphans following classes in hygiene and nutrition with our local MRI International Team Nutritionist.  Community MRI International Team Representatives are poised to initiate preventative oral hygiene and fluoridation programs in community schools and in churches.  They will team with widows in this project to create for the women additional leadership and business opportunity.

Challenges are deep. For most, the status of orphan or widow had been achieved by HIV/AIDS, malaria, trauma or desertion. They are struggling to survive, in lack of adequate shelter, food, medical care, education, and clothing. We are working together.  Things are beginning to improve, and they have that wonderful powerful word, “hope."
 
They are excited.  
They are very proud.   
Life is still hard.  
There is more to do.     
They need your help.