Two New Girls

Two new girls were placed at Pavilion Village in January due to the post-election violence. They are Joyce Nyambura, five years old (date of birth July 7, 2002), and her sister, two-year-old Pauline Wambui, (date of birth September 23, 2005). Their brother, who is three months old, remained with his paternal grandmother.

The children’s mother was murdered by gangs while looking for food for her family. The father was in a different area at the time and by God’s grace was safe. He has been the sole supporter not only of his family of five, but also of his elderly mother. Therefore, he needed help desperately with the children in order to keep his job.

Five-year-old Joyce attends nursery school with some of our other children and will begin primary school in January 2009. Two-year-old Pauline has had a more difficult time adjusting to her surroundings. In the beginning, she attached herself to one of the women staff members, but would cry if anyone else even looked at her. After much love and patience, she seems more content and at home, and less afraid.

Even though, traditionally, children are sent to a type of nursery school at so young an age, it was the decided not to change Pauline’s surroundings yet again until she is able to cope better. Her school situation will be evaluated again in September.

Both Joyce and Pauline love to have their fingernails polished. Pauline has become potty-trained since her stay at Pavilion and is very proud of herself. Both girls love church, and Pauline seems to have a gift of dancing.