From our archives. Published on 29.03.2011. Dates, figures and circumstances refer to this historical account.
Father Pierre and Luisella Moreschi were welcomed by the director of Nyundo orphanage. They met children aged from two days to twelve years; the older children were at secondary school.
The original account describes 621 people at the orphanage, including 18 children with physical disabilities and 18 with intellectual disabilities. Despite having very little, the children smiled and remained full of life. Their carers looked after them with warmth and kindness.
The needs were extensive, both for accommodation and for the children’s wellbeing: blankets, sheets, mattress protectors, nappies, baby clothes, clothing, underwear, shoes, toys, school supplies, medicine and powdered milk.
Food was sometimes limited to beans and rice, despite the funding made available. Although the orphanage kept pigs, chickens, goats and cows, the children could eat meat only once a month.
Its support came from the diocese, itself working with limited resources, and private associations willing to help. Sewing and carpentry workshops had been set up to generate income, but this was not enough.
Laundry was an enormous task. The original account mentions washing by hand for 631 children, with no disposable nappies or mattress protectors for the babies. Dormitories were in poor condition and lacked sheets and blankets. Almost everything needed refurbishment.