Discussing the seemingly contradictory virtues of thrift and generosity

Friday, August 6, 2010

SNG's for Ephraim

Back in February I sent an SNG of $100 for Ephraim for whatever they might need most. In May I received the letter and photos showing what the money was used for. Ephraim and his family received 50 kilos (110 lbs) of flour, cooking oil, sugar, 25 kilos (55 lbs) of mealie meal (a coarse corn meal) and beef.

The report stated that his mother would use the flours, sugar and oil in her income generating activity (she's a street vendor) and that the profits would help the family greatly. As for the beef, the family was going to enjoy that themselves. Here he is with a happy grin next to the goods.

When I received his progress report for this year, it stated that he was no longer in school due to lack of funds. So I called and asked to find out how much school would cost for him. Upon learning that it would only cost $125 to send him back to school for the year I sent a check.

Here he is with his new school clothes, shoes and notebook, all of which was included in that same $125, ready to go. What a great investment! Honestly I can't think of a better way to spend my money or a place where it could possibly go farther. Naturally I'll be sending money for school each year from now on until he is out of high school. I hope it will make a big difference in his life trajectory.