Vine Trust’s 150th Home!
In June this year, the ground will be broken on the 150th family home to be built through the Vine Trust’s partnership with Tanzanian Women Research Foundation (TAWREF). This marvellous milestone is a source of great joy and testament to the excellent work that TAWREF do in their community, the power of partnership and the tremendous support from thousands of Vine Trust volunteers and supporters, who played such a vital role in making this possible.
Dafrosa Itemba, TAWREF’s Executive Director, reflects upon what this partnership has meant to their work in Moshi, Tanzania: “What a blessed partnership! It was in 2011 when Vine Trust approached me to share their vision of connecting the lives of young children orphaned by AIDS with hope, self-esteem, dignity and decent homes to live in. Since then there has been great transformation in many families. The impact has not only been on the families but also on promoting equity in the villages with homes being built in 4 districts of the Kilimanjaro region. TAWREF’s credibility, visibility and professional growth owe a lot to the Vine Trust’s many years of partnership. The passion of the school, corporate and church group volunteers will always remain in the families’ hearts.”
Elly Kimaro, TAWREF’s Project Coordinator, has also been a vital part of this journey, and he has written some of his own personal insights into the impact that these homes have made on families, volunteers and also himself: “Over the past 12 years, my journey supporting the partnership with Vine Trust has been transformative. Working alongside dedicated Vine Trust staff and volunteers, sharing a common goal of supporting orphans and vulnerable people in Moshi, has shaped my understanding of community and resilience. The expeditions foster deep connections between volunteers and the Moshi community. Witnessing their enthusiasm and commitment is inspiring. It reinforces that small actions can lead to significant changes in people’s lives. The volunteers bring diverse skills, backgrounds, and perspectives. Their willingness to immerse themselves in a different culture speaks volumes. I have seen firsthand how their efforts, through fundraising or construction, have created tangible improvements in the lives of orphans. The joy on children’s faces moving into newly built homes is a testament to their impact."
"The Vine Trust and TAWREF partnership has been key in responding to the poverty and housing issues facing some Tanzanian communities. Having 149 homes built in my community is a huge contribution. Families without safe shelter are now protected and comfortable. Collaborating with UK leaders and volunteers has been enriching. Working alongside passionate individuals has taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, empathy, and teamwork. Each interaction has provided insights into communication and problem-solving across cultures. The benefit of Vine Trust volunteers is strengthening the partnership between Vine Trust and TAWREF. Volunteers see where funds raised are going and are part of the building team. This brings transparency, trust, and partnership. I hope to see more building teams in Moshi and continue the transformation of individuals and families empowered by the Vine Trust volunteering programme."
