My First Visit Since COVID
When I left Malawi in October 2019 my plan was to be back with a team in June 2020. Well, we all know how that went. Fast forward to January 31, 2022 I made it - the first visitor to MCM since the pandemic. The long masked flights. The uncertainty of COVID protocol. The jet lag. All worth it to be on the ground. It actually felt “normal”.
COVID in Malawi
I recognized many faces and remembered most names though the children had grown. Since I last visited, 39 new children joined MCM and 29 have left. The ramifications of the pandemic were hard on our families with school closures, transportation shutdowns and reduced opportunity for employment. Several girls became pregnant. Others chose to get married. Work became a priority over education. And, students repeated grade levels. Thankfully 4 “launched” and found employment.
Highlights of the visit include:
The Mervis House: This permanent home on campus for Mervis, one of MCM’s children with physical and cognitive disabilities due to an illness, along with her full-time caregiver is almost completed. It will also be used for emergency care for MCM children.
MCM Academy PreK – STD 8 in Session: Classrooms are filled with new desks and students wearing fresh uniforms and polished shoes. Dedicated teachers work to provide students with individual instruction and compassionate care in support of more than educational successes.
Secondary School Student Visits: Imagine tracking the progress of 49 teenagers at 4 different schools. This is exactly what Henock does as MCM’s Director of Education. The majority of students live in homes rented by MCM near the schools. Being close to campus allows for short commutes and more study time. Housemothers support the students, acting as parents, to oversee meals, cleaning, and school work.
Tertiary Student Meetings: Several of MCM’s older children were back on campus to give updates on their school progress and future plans. Angellina graduates in June with an Agriculture degree and in the meantime started a pig farm with fellow students. Zione graduates from Malawi Institute of Tourism this year and is working on her resume to start the job search. Yakobe, in his 3rd year at University, shared his appreciation for the opportunity to someday support his family when he becomes a professor. Fyson is about to earn a plumbing certification. Mercy has one class to complete a shipping and logistics program. And, Yohane is proud to be an apprentice at Jussab Tires, under the guidance of Ali, a former MCM “child” who was hired at the shop.
Family Visits: Each time I listen to a guardian it sheds light on the real struggles our children and families face each day living in poverty. I'm struck by their deep gratitude for everything they have and the resilience to continue again every day.
Collaboration: Heather Coros joined the trip for in person trauma informed approach training for the staff. We kicked off the Global Classroom partnership with Derby Academy with teacher training regarding Learning Styles. Zoom calls between students started this week. The Farmer's and Wildlife Clubs zoomed with TomorrowNow.org founder Georgina Campbell Flatter to discuss the importance of knowing the weather to be prepared and take action.
Issues being faced by MCM’s community:
Cyclone Ana’s Impact: A week before my arrival, Cyclone Ana ripped through Mozambique and Southern Malawi. At first the impact was unclear though there were 2 days of heavy rain and winds. Slowly we got word of homes and walls crumbling. I was able to visit a few families and hear through translation what occurred. Ken and the team are in the process of calculating the extent of the damage and cost to rebuild or repair. Nothing can be done until the rainy season ends in March - then bricks can be made and thatched grass dried to start the process. Cyclone Ana Jan 25, 2022
Maize Garden Concerns: Due to the lack of consistent rain during the crucial growing period prospects are poor for maize crops in the surrounding area. There was anxiety in the air as we drove by maize fields with short yellow stalks. At this point in the year maize should be tall and dark green. Concern grows over what guardians will do to provide for their families in the coming year. Article
It is clear to me that MCM is a respite for our children - a safe place for them to be cared for and loved. MCM remains a constant in their lives - enabling our children to grow, heal, learn, overcome and succeed. This is fueled by a common mission among the staff - to provide the resources and opportunity so the children thrive and create a better futures for themselves.
I left inspired by MCM's children, honored to work with this staff and grateful to our donors who make it possible. I look forward to returning with a team in June.
Karen Rhen Hirsh - MCM US Director
