Isaya Rodrick, who grew up an orphan himself, cares for 29 orphaned and vulnerable children in a two-room shelter near Usa River. TUFOI is raising funds for safe accommodation, daily meals, clothing and school so these children can grow up safe and in school.
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On the road to Momella Gate in Usa River, Tanzania, a humble two-room shelter has become home to 29 children. It was opened in 2023 by Isaya Rodrick, a 37-year-old who grew up an orphan himself and knows the fear of cold nights and empty stomachs. After building a small business, Isaya chose not to look away. Today the children call him father, but the rooms are overcrowded, and food, clothing and school fees are uncertain every month.
Tupendane Foundation and Initiatives (TUFOI) recently visited the centre and delivered emergency food that fed all 29 children for four days. Now we want lasting change.
The Challenge
- Overcrowding: two rooms are not enough for 29 children to sleep, study and live safely and with dignity.
- Hunger: daily, balanced meals are not guaranteed; TUFOI's emergency food lasted only four days.
- Clothing and hygiene: children lack properly fitting clothes, shoes and basic hygiene items.
- Education: school fees, uniforms and learning materials are out of reach, putting the children's futures at risk.
- Wider need: more than 100 other vulnerable orphans in the Usa River community still have no support.
Our Solution
- Safe accommodation: expand or build additional rooms so the children have secure, healthy and dignified living space.
- Reliable nutrition: fund a steady monthly food supply so all 29 children receive balanced daily meals.
- Clothing and basic needs: provide fitting clothes, shoes and hygiene essentials for each child.
- Education: pay school fees and supply uniforms, books and learning materials so every child is enrolled and learning.
- Monitoring and updates: TUFOI visits the centre regularly, tracks how funds are used and shares progress with donors.
Long-Term Impact
With this support, 29 children move from survival to stability: a safe roof, daily meals and a place in school. Education breaks the cycle of poverty, giving each child the chance to become a self-reliant adult, just as Isaya did. Over time, a stronger centre can reach some of the 100+ other orphans in Usa River, and become a model of community-led care that TUFOI can support in other villages.
How You Can Help
- $25 – Clothing and dignity for one child
- $30 – Nutritious meals for a week
- $50 – Helps expand shelter space for the children
- $100 – School fees and supplies for one child
Every child deserves a home, a plate of food and a chance to dream. Join us in building a future of hope for the children of Usa River.
