Fun and Funk Visit To An Orphanage

 By Shine Esi Kwawukumey 

Eye of The Lord Orphanage Premises 

Located in the heart of Adoagyiri-Nsawam in the Eastern Region of Ghana, Eye of the Lord Orphanage is a refuge for many children, but a visit revealed the depth of their struggles and the resilience that keeps them going. 

Upon getting to the orphanage around 1 PM, last Friday after enduring nearly two hours of vehicular traffic from Accra, eager to engage with the children and staff.

Some of the children playing football 

The orphanage was peaceful upon arrival, with the school closed for the day some of the children were at home, while others played football on the field, enjoying the afternoon under the warm Ghanaian sun.

The first interaction was with a stuff (treasurer and teacher) of the orphanage, Eva Obuo Nyarko, who shared a heartbreaking story. 

A week prior to the visit, thieves had broken into the orphanage and stolen most of their cooking utensils, leaving them with only two pots to cook for 70 children and 15 staff members. 

“It’s been difficult, but we manage with the little we have,” she said with a brave smile, though the strain was evident and moved by her story, requested to see their kitchen. 

'Kitchen'

What was found was shocking, the "kitchen" was nothing more than an open space with a bare foundation. 

It was here, in the open air, that meals for nearly 100 people were prepared and upon seeing it, tears filled the eyes. 

Eva explained that the two remaining pots weren’t stolen simply because they had food in them at the time of the break-in and to keep them safe, they store the pots in the room where the children sleep.

“When it rains, we move to the corridors of the school building to cook,” she continued. 

“We can’t use firewood when it’s wet, so we’re forced to buy charcoal, which is much more expensive, we are praying for help—anyone who can assist with providing proper shelter and kitchen utensils.”

Despite the challenges, the spirit of the orphanage was not broken. 

Donation 

A modest donation of ten bags of sachet water and some clothing were made, which the staff and children graciously received, their gratitude was palpable, and they blessed with warm smiles and heartfelt prayers.

The rest of the afternoon was spent interacting with the children, sharing stories, taking pictures, and soaking in the atmosphere of resilience and hope. 

The children’s laughter and the joy of playing football amidst their challenges brings to light the importance of community support.

Before leaving, a promise was made to return soon, but the heart remained with the children and staff at Eye of the Lord Orphanage. 

They need more than just donations; they need a community that stands with them to help rebuild what’s been lost. 

The orphanage is calling for benevolent individuals and organizations to come to their aid, providing not only kitchen utensils but also the shelter they need to live and cook safely.

This visit to Eye of the Lord was fun and full of funk in spirit, but it was also a powerful reminder of the work that remains to be done. 

Committed to spreading the word and returning, hopefully next time with even more support for these amazing children and the dedicated staff who care for them.

For those willing to help, the orphanage is open to donations, and every little contribution will go a long way to making life better for these children.