When Living Compassion was introduced to Kantolomba compound, a slum on the outskirts of Ndola, Zambia, we found a community of 8,000 adults and 3,000 children lacking in all basic services: no safe drinking water, medical care, employment, adequate housing, electricity, or schools. We asked a resident, “What would you do if you had money?” “I’d feed the children. Many are not eating,” she answered. We enthusiastically responded, “We can help with that.” In August 2005, we began feeding 40 children. Today that number has grown to more than 250, plus the children are now going to school. The last two years have been an amazing adventure for Living Compassion and the people of Kantolomba.

In October 2006, we bought a large plot of land and built a second school to serve 10- to 15-year-olds. A medical center is under construction on the property, and we have purchased several adjacent properties on which t'o build more schools. We have dug a well to provide the first safe, clean water to Kantolomba. We are supporting micro-businesses by importing local crafts for sale in the United States. Proceeds bring much-needed income to this poor community and expand employment opportunities.

This is just the beginning. Over the next few years, in partnership with the community of Kantolomba and many others, we will provide safe housing, electricity, and a sewage system.