New School Bags for Chifundo Kids in Malawi

It always starts with one person, a good idea and a compassionate heart.

Sue Berglund from Crosslake, Minnesota is such a person who has no shortage of either ideas or compassion. After a couple of trips to Malawi and Mozambique with Ancient Path, Sue continued to carry the people she met in her heart – especially the vulnerable children. And along the way she has inspired other women to use their skills and talents to make a difference in the lives of others – finding that their own lives are changed in the process.

One time it was hand-made fleece jackets for school children. Another time it was a giant quilt  for a Malawian village church – crafted with African fabric and scripture verses embroidered in the local language, Chichewa. Then it was original coloring books written in the language  – and close to 100 children own beautiful handmade dolls in traditional dress.

Now, Sue and her co-horts are at it again – this time making beautifully embroidered schoolbags for the Chifundo Kids in Kalieka Township, Malawi.  At a recent women’s retreat in Minnesota, Sue and a group of women spent an afternoon sewing, cutting and assembling the bags. They viewed photos of the children they are working for and listened to stories about their lives in Malawi. Many of them expressed joy at being able to use their skills to make a difference a world away.

Sharon Jacobson, the skilled artisan who embroidered all the bags said this:

When Sue started traveling to Malawi, I wanted to go with her so badly, but I am not physically able. Now I’ve found a way to send my heart instead.

Well said, Sharon:) And thanks to all the faithful women in Minnesota who have given of their time to change a child’s life – one act of love at a time!

Photo Credits: Danielle Ingalls at  http://gallery.me.com/onceuponatimestudios . Danielle is a professional photographer and a new Ancient Path volunteer. Thank you, Danielle!