Emergency Relief Appeal stories (part 1)

Last year, thanks to the incredible response to the Emergency Relief Appeal, £13,700 was sent to support families struggling due to the Covid restrictions. Money went to basic needs as well as boosting small businesses.

The families were incredibly grateful and, for those who received business support, they work hard to ensure their businesses thrive.

Here are some of those stories…

St Luke's Ntinda

Partnered with the community at Christ Church Beckenham. More info

For a long time B. has sold secondhand bed sheets but, due to the challenges of Covid, there were far fewer customers. All she had saved was used up on basic family needs. Karis provided the starter capital for five sacks of charcoal. Her business is picking up slowly.

St Nicholas Kalerwe

Partnered with the community at Christ Church Winchester. More info

J. used to sell steamed maize. However maize is a seasonal product making it unpredictable to source. As a consequence, she would sometimes be unable to make any income. She requested to set up a grocery business to boost her income and now she owns a stall selling fruit, veg and other items.

St Paul’s Okuvu

Partnered with the community at The Downs Benefice Winchester. More info

One particular Karis family in Okuvu is made up of children who lost both parents. They were struggling to cover rent and othe basics. Additionally, they needed a ‘double decker’ (bunk bed) along with beddings such as bed sheets, mosquito nets and blankets. These were bought by Karis and delivered to their home. It was all joy and appreciation to finally have a decent place to sleep on!

St Peter’s Naguru

Partnered with the community in Woking. More info

Having completed training in horticulture in 2019, E. had been getting casual work in line with her training, but it wasn’t sustainable. She approached Karis for help and procured a grinder. E. identified a district where there was a need for such a service. She is very expectant this new business will raise enough income for rent and help her family.

St Peter’s Wandegeya

Partnered with the community at Holy Trinity Richmond. More info

H's family has been growing, placing a strain on her porridge and mixed grill business. Due to the pandemic, there was no longer enough to go around for this growing family. It became difficult for her to continue operating, so she requested financial support from Karis to help with her family's needs. Karis was able to help and her business is getting back to normal.

St John’s Kamwokya

Partnered with the community at Winchester Vineyard Church. More info

V. deals in peanut paste at Kamwokya market. Her business was greatly affected by the long lockdown and so Karis gave her a boost to start afresh. The business has started to grow again.