By Nathan Eyagu

Soroti City — Friends at Heart, a non-profit organization based in Soroti City, has generously donated essential food supplies, including posho and beans, to St. Francis Primary School for the Blind in Madera, Soroti City. This contribution aims to bolster the school’s feeding program and provide much-needed support to its learners.

Sister Rose, the Head Teacher of St. Francis Primary School for the Blind, conveyed her sincere appreciation to the Friends at Heart team for their invaluable assistance. She highlighted that the donation will significantly aid the school’s efforts to sustain its learners, many of whom face financial challenges in meeting school fees, limiting the resources available for their welfare. Despite these constraints, Sister Rose acknowledged that support from well-wishers has enabled the school to improve infrastructure and other essential services.

Anthony Opila, the School’s Director of Studies (DOS), expressed gratitude for the timely food relief, which will provide critical sustenance to the school’s approximately 125 pupils. He underscored the specialized nature of the school, noting that each learner’s needs are equivalent to those of ten regular students due to the unique challenges they face. Consequently, the school’s enrollment is effectively comparable to 1,250 pupils in a mainstream setting. Anthony further explained that learners receive specialized instruction and undertake examinations on par with other students.

Several learners who spoke to this publication also extended their heartfelt thanks to Friends at Heart. They acknowledged that the food relief will greatly support them as the academic term draws to a close, expressing gratitude for the organization’s generosity and kindness.

“We are profoundly grateful to Friends at Heart for their visit and support,” said Anthony Opila. “This assistance will enable us to continue providing for our learners, and we pray for continued blessings upon the organization.”

Francis Omoding, representing Friends at Heart, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to sustained engagement and support. “We regard this community as our home and remain dedicated to supporting both the learners and staff. We commend the staff for their unwavering commitment to nurturing the future generation,” he stated. He also announced the official launch of Friends at Heart, scheduled for August 2nd, which will mark the beginning of the organization’s formal activities to assist vulnerable populations.