Fundraiser for Tanzania

Named for the Swahili word for “success,” three women in the area are hoping an upcoming fundraiser for their not-for-profit Bahati Project to help support children’s initiatives in Africa is just that.

On Friday, January 31, sisters Megan Kelk, age 23, Jenn Kelk, age 29, and their friend Anne-Marie Montgomery, age 23, will host an evening of music, food, door prizes, crafts and jewellery at Terra Nova Public House in Mulmur.

The money they raise will go directly to the Bahati Project, which the three women founded last fall after visiting Tanzania in 2011.

The Bahati Project funds three initiatives: Meru View, a preschool for children whose families can’t afford education themselves; Pippi House, a safe house for girls who have been living on the streets, and Newlands Orphanage.

“Meru View is funded entirely by donations,” explained Megan, who lives in Mulmur. “These kids (pictured above) wouldn’t be able to go to school otherwise.”

Since Megan and Anne-Marie’s first visit to Tanzania (see photo on home page), they have raised money to support Meru View through events such as a movie afternoon in Alliston last November, Breakfast with Santa as well as Christmas craft and bake sales at Primrose Elementary School in Mulmur, where Jenn teaches Grades 7 and 8. They also accept private donations for their cause.

The fundraiser ticket price ($20 at the door) will cover some of the cost of the food, but the rest will be sent directly to Tanzania, said Megan.

In addition to having a good time, the evening at Terra Nova Public House will also provide an opportunity for Megan, Jenn and Anne-Marie to educate their guests about the three establishments in Africa.

“It’s so hard for people to understand what they are raising money for without having seen it,” Megan said. “So we try to give them something as well.”

To find out more about the Bahati Project, visit bahatiproject.weebly.com.