In the spirit of giving during the joyous festive season in December 2022, PIL employees from Egypt, Jordan, Kenya and Tanzania put their heads and hearts together to drive the ‘One Gift, One Smile’ charity initiative. Through the act of gifting, they hope to encourage and bring joy to those from disadvantaged backgrounds in the community.
Egypt
In Egypt, PIL employees reached out to the El Tahrir Association, who helped to arrange visits to two orphanages and two caregiving homes for the elderly to bring cheer to the children and the seniors. During the visits, the PIL teams organised light-hearted fun activities such as face painting and mascot performance which both young and old thoroughly enjoyed. Fresh blooms were also presented to the elderly to spread the festive cheer.
Jordan
Over in Jordan, a visit was made by the PIL employees to a refugee support centre set up by St Paul’s Church, funded by private and corporate donations, to help war refugees from neighbouring countries. The centre, managed by Reverend George and his wife Mary, extends assistance to many impoverished families who look towards the church for financial and educational support. PIL employees bore presents for all the children, which brought plenty of smiles and laughter around the room.
Kenya
In Kenya, a collection drive was organised among the PIL teams in Mombasa and Nairobi for toys, sweets and necessities. The items gathered were then specially delivered to the Cannan Children’s Home in Mombasa. The Home, run by a lady named Mrs Risper and her daughter, supports 55 children from underprivileged backgrounds. These children are either orphans or have been abandoned by their families. The gifts which PIL Kenya delivered brought joy and cheer to the children.
Tanzania
In Tanzania, PIL employees visited the YOCO Orphanage bearing gifts for the 28 children at the orphanage located in Kimara, Dar es Salaam. Established in 2020, the orphanage is seeking to have a permanent location. Currently, the children at the orphanage are cared for by two guardians while funds are being raised so they could build their first home.
Everyone’s contribution, though small, collectively made an impact on each and every recipient at the charities, homes and orphanages in the four countries. Through initiatives such as ‘One Gift, One Smile’, PIL employees wish to spread hope to the communities around the world where PIL is present.