Report: Joan Gono’s Orphanage

With the funds raised through MFP’s fiscal sponsorship, Joan was able to purchase a small fenced-in compound with two houses on it at a cost equaling about $17,250. The compound has room enough to sleep the children who live on site, Joan, two staff members, and the watchman. Using some contributions from last year’s fundraiser, she also bought a used 4-door pickup truck for $8,280 for taking the children to medical appointments and carrying building materials for much-needed renovations and repairs, spending a total of $25,530.

The total amount Joan received from MFP’s three wire transfers was $23,864, due to fees taken out. With the purchase of the property and the pickup truck, Joan used about $1,665 from last year’s online fundraiser to cover the difference.

Joan’s orphanage cares for 31 children presently, including 16 living at the orphanage and 15 in foster care. This year, Joan welcomed Esther, a 10-year-old girl, whose parents could no longer care for her. Although initially Esther was withdrawn, Joan says: “today, Esther is happy … playing with her friends … in the 3rd grade and doing well.”

Joan wrote that these funds have “made our dreams come true. l and my children do not even know which words to use to express our thanks and appreciation to MFP and our wonderful donors.”

Even with the 2023 funds received through the anonymous donor, the orphanage’s needs are still great. Costs continue to climb, and Joan does not receive any government funding.

Adding to the challenge, she no longer runs the small guest house where I stayed when we met, due to lower demand, so she’s also lost that small income. However, Joan is planning for new sources of support to create a more consistent income. Next year, she intends to start wholesale foodstuff (e.g., rice, sugar, flour, argo oil) and building materials (e.g., cement) businesses.

Please let me know if it would be possible to apply to MFP for funding for the orphanage. And, if yes, when I should submit the application.

Joan and I send our heartfelt thanks to MFP for your generosity in acting as the fiduciary agent for the anonymous donor contribution and for your many years of contributions to the orphanage. So wonderful that they all have a safe place to call their own. Please enjoy the attached photos of Joan and the children.

We send best wishes to you this holiday season, especially during such a challenging time in the world.

With much gratitude,

Alisha Horowitz, December 16, 2023