2021 Annual Stories
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." -2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)
YOUR IMPACT ................................................. 4 MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDERS ....................... 5 WATOTO CHURCH ............................................ 6 WHO WE ARE ................................................ 10 BABY WATOTO ................................................ 12 OUR VILLAGES................................................ 20 FATHER’S HEART ............................................. 26 EDUCATION ................................................... 30 MEDICAL ...................................................... 32 SPORTS ACADEMY .......................................... 34 WORSHIP ACADEMY ........................................ 36 WATOTO CHILDREN’S CHOIR .............................. 40 SUSTAINABILITY ............................................ 44 WATOTO NEIGHBOURHOOD .............................. 48 KEEP A GIRL IN SCHOOL .................................... 62 WHERE WE ARE ............................................... 65 WATOTO CANADA AND FINANCIALS .................... 66 Table of Contents Shakirah and Peter
4 Watoto Your Impact To each of you who has sponsored, donated, volunteered, prayed, or supported us over the years—THANK YOU! You are making a tremendous impact in the lives of those we are reaching together. The stories and highlights throughout this report are just a snapshot of the countless lives transformed by your generosity. And we’re forever grateful! Watoto Villages 3,415 children are being raised in a loving family across our three villages. Here, they grow up with food, clothes, medical care, and an education as we teach them their value in Christ. 44 Baby Watoto Last year, we rescued 44 babies. That means, 44 little lives were saved and given a new chance at life. 975 Watoto Neighbourhood We embraced 975 women with the love of Jesus, and equipped them with adult literacy, vocational training, business skills and job opportunities. 3,415
We are grateful for you—for your generosity, sacrifice, friendship, and unwavering support. As we have been reflecting on the past 38 years and the vision God placed on our hearts almost four decades ago, we are more aware of the truth that the Watoto vision is not just about building beautiful church facilities filled with lots of people, but about raising transformational leaders who will bring the nature and character of Jesus into their communities and nation.
May God bless you, Gary and Marilyn Skinner Watoto Founders
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Your love inspires us. You are a gift to us and to every woman and child whose lives have been changed because of that love.
Over the last two years, the significance of this vision has never been more real. We’ve seen the church grow tremendously as we’ve all been stretched to reach people in a new way. We’ve also seen incredible transformation in the lives of individuals and families throughout our Watoto villages, communities, and nation. God has been faithful, and we are so thankful for that. When we look at the successes, we are reminded that we could never do this alone. That’s why we’re excited to share recent highlights and stories from across Watoto. From our villages and Baby Watoto, to the girls we’re keeping in school and the mothers we’re reaching right in their neighbourhoods, these are just a few of the thousands of lives that have been transformed because of the love of Jesus and your partnership.
Message fromOur Founders
6 Watoto
7Annual Stories Watoto Church
As we gather to sing, dance, and hear the encouraging and life-changing word of God, we know we are also called to care for those around us. We do this through our over 2,700 small groups, also known as cell families. These weekly gatherings in our communities are the heartbeat of Watoto Church because this is where deep personal relationships are formed. It’s through these relationships that we can truly care for our community as we carry each other’s burdens, enjoy life together, and allow for the discipleship of Christ to flourish. Often in more intimate settings, we
“As a church, we need to be relevant to the needs of the community. We must pay attention to the things that break Jesus’ heart.” -Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo atoto is a lifegiving church that celebrates Christ and cares for Everycommunity.week more than 36,000 people gather with us in person at our 14 church locations in Uganda and South Sudan, along with over one million viewers who watch online and on TV. We give glory to God for how He is using Watoto Church to reach the lost with the good news of Jesus Christ.
8 Watoto W
Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo Associate Team Leader
truly discover the needs of our friends and community— sometimes this means painting a school, cleaning the side of a road, or visiting the sick. Our small groups have played a big role in the success of our Watoto Neighbourhood initiative. In fact, many of the vulnerable women we are currently empowering joined as a result of attending one of the small groups in their own Thisneighbourhood.wayof doing church began with the vision God gave our founder, Gary Skinner, over four decades ago. Today, with God’s guidance, Senior Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo continues to build on this strong foundation as he provides vision and leadership to the entire ministry. And he has the vital support of Pastor Eddie Mwesigye, who gives pastoral oversight to our team of pastors, and Pastor Brian Abaho, who oversees Watoto’s Worship Arts. We know Jesus is the hope of the world. As a church, we will continue to encourage, inspire, and reach the lost with the love of Christ as we rebuild this beautiful Africa, together. Pastor Eddie Mwesigye Pastor Brian Abaho
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“He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes, with the princes of his people.”
Who We Are -Psalm 113:7-8 (NIV)
10 Watoto
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uilt on the belief that Jesus can make all things new again, Watoto is a place of hope.
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In 1984, Gary and Marilyn Skinner founded Watoto Church with a clear vision to transform lives in Africa with the love of Jesus. Not long after our first church service, HIV/AIDS devastated the continent. People began dying, turning children into orphans. It was clear— how could a church say they love Jesus and not do something about the pain and suffering around them? So, our work began. Now, almost 40 years later we’re seeing a new day full of hope. With all the great things God has already done through Watoto, there are new challenges we’re facing. So, we’ll keep working to bring healing to the new pains and hurts throughout Africa knowing God will lead, direct, and provide. As we celebrate Christ and care for community, we’re grateful that Watoto is a family made up of people like you from all over the world. Together, we will continue to rescue the most vulnerable babies, raise future leaders, and restore dignity to women in our beholdAndthroughmoreTogether,neighbourhoods.wewillseelivestransformedtheloveofJesus.together,wewillthenew.
12 Watoto Baby Watoto
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14 Watoto
Rescuing Uganda’s most vulnerable Baby Kasey
A woman passing by a home that was under construction heard Kasey crying. She found him alone wrapped in a towel and reached out to authorities for help. Once abandoned, Kasey now wears a big smile knowing he has a future full of love.
Baby Audrey Found abandoned in a bush just hours after she was born, Audrey was rescued and placed with us for the vital care she needed. Today, Audrey is healthy, happy, and dearly loved.
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When she first came to us she was malnourished. But, after receiving medical care and lots of love, Esther gained weight and has even taken her first steps. Today, Esther is thriving and is growing up surrounded by the love of ThanksChrist. to everyone who believes in the work God has called us to do. Your support makes it possible for babies like Esther to have a great new chance at life.
LBabyEstherPsalm9:18
ike us, we know you believe life is a precious gift from God. Yet, millions of babies like Esther are orphaned before they reach their first
Tragically,birthday.Esther’s mother died during childbirth, and she never knew who the father was. So, Esther was initially left with her elderly grandmother who was too sick to care for her. Before Esther could take her first steps, she had little to no chance in life. “But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish” (Psalm 9:18 NIV).
16 Watoto MeetMiriam
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“In every corner of my life I’ve had people who stood with me. I want to thank my sponsors for the love they’ve given me, and partners like you for your support. I am grateful to have passed through your hands.” 2012 Today, Miriam is living her dream because someone like you cared. Your partnership ensures vulnerable little ones, like Miriam once was, will get to grow up surrounded by love with hope for a bright future.
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iriam has a smile that lights up the room—and is a living example of the hope we find in Jesus. Although her life began in tragedy, Miriam found refuge and a loving family at Watoto. Sadly, her mother died before Miriam’s first birthday and her father died too. As a little girl, Miriam lived with her ailing grandmother who struggled to provide the basics needed for a healthy life. Reflecting back Miriam said, “Life in Watoto was amazing. I was given a family with brothers and sisters and my precious mum called Mama Joy who loved us Miriam’sunconditionally.”passion to help vulnerable children led her to study Social Work at university, leading her to serve as a nanny here.
18 Watoto MIriam and Baby Emilly
Babies Loved & Cared For Throughout 2021, we provided 162 of Uganda’s most vulnerable babies with the nutrition, medical care, love, and protection they each needed to thrive.
Last year, we rescued 44 babies. That means, 44 little lives were saved and given a new chance at life.
At Baby Watoto, we care for some of Uganda’s most vulnerable babies. And throughout last year, we continued to see God meet our needs and provide for our little ones. Our staff and volunteers served with all their hearts, especially during the challenging times, to ensure our babies received the love and care they needed to survive. And we’re grateful for the faithful support of you—our sponsors and partners who have been with us each step of the way. We couldn’t do what we do without you.
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Babies Rescued in 2021
1,531
Because of partners like you, over the years we’ve rescued 1,531 babies—and counting. Each one is a living miracle and a reminder of God’s faithfulness.
Rescued Since Inception
162
20 Watoto Mama Lilly and Esther
21Annual Stories Our Villages
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Laura and Denorah
22 Watoto cross our three Watoto villages, we’re raising over 3,400 children—each one belongs to a loving family and grows up learning their value in Christ. And although the past few years have been difficult, when we look back, we marvel at how God provided and carried us through. It’s thrilling to finally see life begin to return to normal. Today, as you walk through our villages you can’t help but notice an overwhelming presence of joy. You might find Laura and Denorah taking care of a pet rabbit, or a group of boys playing a friendly, yet competitive game of chess. These are clear reminders that no matter what a child goes through, kids everywhere are the same. They deserve to grow up with a family that loves them, an education, and to be free from worrying about where their next meal might come from. And because of faithful sponsors like you, our children are finally secure enough to enjoy playing with their friends and simply being kids. Thanks for your unwavering support that makes this possible.
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Lucky Raised in Watoto, Lucky has discovered he likes the challenge of games like chess that make him think. Chess gives him the opportunity to have fun with friends as he excels at the game using his wits.
Sheila The future is full of possibilities. Shelia loves reading and wants to become a lawyer one day. In the meantime, she enjoys helping her Watoto sisters look their best by styling their hair.
24 Watoto Mama Christine and Joseph
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She’s humbled when she thinks how God can use her simple act of reading and praying with her children to transform their lives. She knows each child has their hurts and pain, but more importantly she knows first-hand the healing and restorative power of Jesus, because she’s seen it in her own Beforelife.
breeze glides over the table, gently lifting the pages of Mama Christine’s Bible. It’s a reminder that the busy day of cleaning, cooking, and looking after eight children is winding down. It’s also a reminder of God’s quiet and constant presence and provision in her life. She reads aloud treasuring this moment with Joseph.
Christine came to Watoto, she struggled to provide for her two biological children. Unable to attend school, her kids were struggling too. Eventually, Christine was brought on as a Watoto mother and her life changed. She went from worrying about two children, to seeing God provide for the eight children He now entrusted with her. She’s thankful for this moment with Joseph. It’s a clear reminder how God can create a new and beautiful reality. Uganda’s future leaders
A Raising
26 Watoto
Father’s Heart
One way we do this is through a program called “Father’s Heart,” where men like Derrick share the love of a father with our kids and consistently “show up” for them.
And we’re grateful to each of you—our sponsors, partners, volunteers, pastors, and staff in Uganda and around the world— who are feeding into the lives of our kids, making sure they grow up knowing their value in Christ and have a very present father figure to mentor and guide them.
Derrick’s involvement began in 2008 when he heard an announcement at Watoto Church inviting men to join “Father’s Heart.” After prayer, he answered the call and 14 years later he still continues to show up for the kids.
Father figures play an important role in a child’s life. While the children we’ve rescued might have lost their father—or never knew him—we make sure they grow up knowing they are sons and daughters of their heavenly Father, and that He loves them.
Entering the village, he’s met with a chorus of “Uncle Derrick!” It’s a familiar sight, not unlike a father returning home from work. Hugs and high-fives are shared. The small gift is given to Mama Allen as Derrick turns his attention to the young men of the house. “How’s school? Are you listening in class?” He then visits with the kids for the next few hours.
It’s a clear bright morning. The newness of the day brings a sense of optimism and purpose. Derrick navigates the busy and bumpy Kampala streets. Just before turning onto the unpaved road that leads to Watoto’s Bbira village, he stops at a small shop. Dashing in he grabs a bag of noodles, some sugar, and Smiling,lollipops.hesays, “It’s for my Watoto home.”
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We’re grateful to men like Derrick, and to all our sponsors who are part of our Watoto family across the globe. Thank you for helping us raise Africa’s future leaders!
Derrick Derrick is one of several men who understand the power of being consistent in the lives of future leaders and helping them live a life full of God’s wonder and purpose.
In fact, today Marvin’s receiving everything he needs to grow up healthy and whole—an education, medical care, and most of all, he’s surrounded by the love of Jesus. Because of your prayers and support, Marvin now has a future full of expectation and hope. Thanks for loving Watoto. N
o matter what life holds, there is always hope. There is hope in Jesus who provides a brighter tomorrow. At Watoto, over that past 38 years, we have seen lives made new again. We have seen despair turn into joy. We have seen God heal broken places and bring restoration. We’ve watched children like Marvin, whose start in life was far from ideal, begin to flourish.
30 Watoto Education
Instudents.February
Watoto is dedicated to raising Africa’s future leaders. And thanks to God’s grace and your support, we’re doing just that. In fact, in 2021 we had 2,770 students throughout our Watoto villages that were learning, growing, and working towards the bright futures God has for them. Although students were not able to meet in the classroom last year, we continued to find creative ways to educate our children. And we’re thankful for our teachers who were flexible and willing to adapt to new techniques of teaching to meet the needs of the 2022, we all celebrated as government lockdowns lifted and our schools reopened. Our children are thrilled to be back at school learning alongside their They’veclassmates.also been able to return to extracurricular activities that are vital to their development. So far, almost half of our students participated in an activity, including with our Sports and Worship Academies. We’re grateful for your faithful support that helps make this all possible.
David
In 2021, 2,770 students throughout our Watoto villages were learning, growing, and working towards the bright futures God has for them.
31Annual Stories Shamim, Shukran and Teacher Alex
Students in Our Watoto Schools
54 Students Graduated University Last year, we celebrated as 54 of our students graduated university. And we are cheering on 492 of our young adults who are currently at university or a tertiary school studying to further their education. 2,770
Our doctors and nurses administered 1,743 immunizations for diseases like measles, polio, and hepatitis B to help keep our children and mothers healthy.
Providing medical care is a cornerstone of rescuing and raising future leaders, and throughout the pandemic God’s provision and protection have been overwhelming.
1,190 Mosquito Nets Distributed
The support of sponsors and partners across the globe made it possible for us to continue to ensure our children are physically healthy so they could focus on their studies, play with their friends, and grow spiritually and emotionally. To protect our mothers and children, during the peak of the pandemic we continued to restrict access to our villages to only essential workers and limited movement throughout our villages. We also focused heavily on health education and preventative measures to keep our Watoto families healthy and safe.
Last year, our team continued to protect our Watoto families from diseases like malaria. To help with these efforts, they distributed 1,190 mosquito nets across our villages. 1,743
Immunizations Administered
32 Watoto Medical
Lawrence, Lab Technician
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Our Watoto clinics strengthened prevention strategies and disease management through ongoing staff medical education to build in-house capacity, along with early screening, detection, and management of cases. In addition to the physical health of our mothers and children, the unknowns of the pandemic started to cause anxiety and fear, so we promoted mental wellness and provided care with the support of a clinical Wepsychologist.thank God for the volunteer teams that came through to support our medical team in a critical time, including a team from theycarewerechildrengenerosity,BecausesupportwhoaroundamazingWeSuubi1,608dentalwereDentalouryear.medicalustothefromdoctorsUniversitySoutheasternaswellasandnursesCanadaandUSwhotraveledUgandatohelpmeetthepressingneedslastAndthankstopartnerMUKSchool,weabletoprovidecheckupsforchildrenonourvillage.aregratefulforpartnerstheworldcontinuetoourefforts.ofyourourandmumsabletogettheandsupportneeded.
Josephine examining Nathan
34 Watoto Sports Academy
Last year, our coaches mentored 603 children through our Sports Academy—helping them not only in the game, but also in life so they can become future leaders. Emmanuel is a perfect example of someone whose life is being transformed by his coaches and his faith. He came to Watoto as a young boy and was shy growing up, but that’s changing. Coach Dibzo explains how Emmanuel is now assured of his identity in EmmanuelChrist.waspart of the Uganda National Team that competed in Egypt, and next year he’ll be competing in France. These opportunities are beyond basketball, they’re helping shape him as a person who knows he has purpose and is loved unconditionally—win or lose.
35Annual Stories Emmanuel
36 Watoto Worship Academy 168 Exploring Creative Gifts Through our Worship Academy, 168 students are exploring how they can creatively and passionately share God’s love with the world.
hrough our Worship Academy, last year 168 students explored how they can creatively and passionately express their love of Jesus through music, dance, media, and fine arts. We offered inperson and online classes to expand our reach, as well as connect our kids with highly skilled tutors all over the world. Our courses included “Creative Course,” an online class for advanced students that’s received an accreditation from Southeastern University through our partnership with Creative Lab WeAcademy.also now have a beginner’s course, giving an opportunity for some of our older students to teach our younger children. This beginner’s course provides a space to explore and learn the foundations of music, while helping with their development as artists and in all areas of life. Plus, we were able to hire more tutors for our Bbira and Suubi villages near Kampala, along with hiring tutors for our Laminadera village in rural northern Uganda, ensuring our kids grow and learn equally no matter where they live. This is only possible because of the generous support of you—our global Wepartners.couldn’t do this without you!
T
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Marvin shared, “Watoto helped deepen my relationship with Christ and discover my God-given talents as I used them to serve his people. Now I get to see my students strengthen their skills and grow in their own walk with God. My heart is filled with joy!”
of our Watoto graduates are now teachers within our Worship Academy, including Marvin and Edith. You might recognize them from when they traveled with the Watoto Children’s Choir as kids, or more recently as leaders.
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“Growing up in Watoto was truly God’s plan. Thanks to our sponsors for their support and love. We wouldn’t be where we are now if it wasn’t for God and them.” -Marvin
WatotoAfew
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“I want to thank my sponsors and my whole Watoto family—you are my heroes. You changed my story.” -Edith
“We were given the most loving mum who cared for us as though we were her own. Everything we ever wanted was provided for us.”
After the death of her parents, as a young girl Edith came to Watoto with her brother.
Edith went on explaining the impact Watoto has had on her life, “We went to school, and I got a chance to travel with the Watoto Children’s Choir. It’s here I gave my life to Jesus. And now I work at the Worship Academy as a vocal tutor. I love my job because I get to mentor my younger Watoto brothers and sisters."
40 Watoto Watoto Children’s Choir
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Patrick and Wycliff
or the first time, our very own Watoto Children’s Choir recorded and released a Christmas album “What Child Is This (Emirembe).”
YouTube.com/watoto
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You might recognize some of the children who performed on the album and appeared in the music videos.
Patrick, who wants to grow up to be a pastor, toured Brazil, Norway, and Sweden. You can see him as Joseph in the music video for the title track “What Child Is Wycliff,This.” who toured the US, starred in “We Three Kings.” He played the role of a wiseman, and that’s perfect since he wants to be meteorologist when he grows Elizabeth,up.
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We also produced music videos to help celebrate the birth of Jesus and say “Merry Christmas” to our friends around the world.
Patricia, and Cynthia love singing and dancing and got the chance to share their skills through this project. Be sure to go to our YouTube channel and see them all in action.
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Elizabeth Patricia and Cynthia
We know God has called us to share the good news of Jesus, along with all the good things happening in East Africa through Watoto. Over our nearly three decades of touring, we have seen Jesus use our story of hope to redeem lives all over the world. Even though we have missed seeing and meeting you, and all our friends and partners around the world, we know God is doing something new for you and the Watoto Children’s Choir. This thrills us to our core. Since 2020, we’ve been hard at work writing and recording music. We cannot wait to see you very soon on our next tour.
In a time where many faced food shortages, we’re thankful we were able to provide nutrition, safety, and love for all our Watoto mums, children, and babies.
44 Watoto Sustainability
Watoto’s farms and sustainability efforts do a lot. They’re an important way we keep our families healthy—by providing nutritious food, like fresh vegetables, fruit, and eggs to the 3,801 children and mothers living on our villages. And our goats supply goat’s milk for our babies. Our farms also help strengthen our communities by providing jobs and creating opportunities that have a lasting impact. In fact, we have several Watoto graduates and 64 people from the surrounding neighborhoods working every day to provide food for our children. And we’re partnering with our schools to give our kids an early introduction to farming. It’s a great opportunity for some of our children to learn the business of agriculture and maybe one day run a farm of their own.
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In 2021, several students participated in a course where they could develop and hone their farming skills, including Ivan. He is excelling and already taking on a leadership role over our Today,greenhouses.asheis learning the ropes of farming, he’s proudest of being able to make sure his brothers and sister have food to eat. This is a miracle. God took someone begging for food and created a new person, transforming Ivan into someone providing food for others.
fter his parents died, Ivan experienced firsthand the pain of going hungry. At times he had to beg for food, often going without. Recalling the moment his life changed, Ivan said, “My siblings and I were brought to Watoto. I found a family, food was available, and I could go to school.”
46 Watoto
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Ishmael
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Emmanuel
To my dear sponsors, thanks for your love and support. You’re giving me the opportunity to become what God created me to be. May God bless you.”
Like Ivan and Emmanuel, Ishmael joined Watoto as a child and knows what it means to go hungry. That’s why he is determined to become a farmer, ensuring none of his brothers and sisters know the pain of hunger again. Watoto is helping our future farmers by incorporating agriculture in our school curriculum and providing hands-on experience as well. Watoto Sustainability is a part of the bright tomorrow God has for all of us.
“Watoto has given me the opportunity to pursue my dream career in agriculture. I know I’m going to change the world.
48 Watoto Watoto Neighbourhood
49Annual Stories Mama Prossy with a client
The reality is millions of women throughout Africa have to bear the brunt of war, poverty, and disease. Uneducated, unloved, and unwanted, they’ve been robbed of dignity, left to suffer alone, unable to take care of their children. For many around the world, we are living in the most prosperous time in history. Yet, our sisters are suffering without hope. Watoto
50 Watoto others everywhere are the same. They want their children to be healthy and safe. They want them to have a better life than they’ve had themselves.
We provided much needed financial help to 3,468 women who were impacted by the pandemic so they could buy food and basic necessities for their families.
208 Women Passed Adult Literacy We celebrated as 208 women passed their adult literacy classes, many learning to write their names and read their Bibles for the very first time. 3,468
MPandemic Relief Support
Neighbourhood is changing this. With the love of Jesus, we are seeing new hope burst through the old shell of poverty. We are empowering mothers so they can provide for their children and rebuild their communities. The results are astonishing. Last year, we helped over 3,400 mothers with emergency financial support during the government lockdowns. This enabled them to get food and basic necessities for their families. And thanks to the generosity of people all over the world, we were able to invest in almost 1,000 small businesses that our recently trained ladies were ready to start. This means 1,000 women now have more control of their destiny.
Mama Prossy
A shop tucked away on a busy street is changing the life of a family and a community. Mama Prossy is a success story of God’s miraculous work through your generosity and Watoto. Learning basic business skills and her value in Christ were instrumental in Prossy going from someone needing help to someone able to provide and lift others up. Not only is her salon staying busy, but she also put the area just outside her salon to good use by selling produce. This type of industry is making an impact. She walks in faith and trust, no longer worrying about tomorrow. She knows she is a daughter of God who loves her and will continue to provide her with practical ways to make a difference in her community.
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52 Watoto Mama Daisy Mama Dorcas Mama Sandra Mama Joan
“A friend loves at all times…” -Proverbs 17:17a (NIV)
53Annual Stories e were never meant to go through life alone. God created us to be in relationship with Him and those around us. At Watoto Neighbourhood, we empower women so they can in turn embrace each other and engage with their community.
Daisy, Dorcas, Sandra, and Joan all share similar backgrounds. Growing up, they were not given the opportunity of an education. They are mothers who were abandoned by their children’s fathers. They each felt unloved from all their past hurts. Yet, each one found the love of Jesus through their small groups within Watoto Church. It was at these smaller weekly gatherings that their church family was able to offer Thesehelp.four mothers were told about Watoto Neighbourhood. Here, they were given adult literacy classes, business training, and most importantly, spiritual discipleship where they learned about their value in Christ and how to forgive. Today, they have a strong connection at church, and in this community of empowered women we call Watoto Neighbourhood.
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-Winnie
54 Watoto y name is Winnie. After my husband died, life became so hard for me and my four children. I had to wash clothes for people for very little money. One day, I joined a small group at Watoto Church. This is how I learned about Watoto Neighbourhood where I experienced the love of Jesus and found hope. I learned about forgiveness, business skills and so much more. At the end of my classes I was given a package to help me start a business. I was able to buy food and “M pay rent. God has been faithful. Today, I have my own land, where I built my home. I am able to pay for my kids to go to school. And now I help teach others tailoring and life skills. Thank you so much for your love. May God bless you.”
Winnie’s son, Cosmos, studies at home Winnie and her baby, Blessing “To all our sponsors, thank you. Before I was nothing and had nothing to my name. But now I can stand on my own and support my children.”
55Annual Stories Winnie’s tailoring shop Winnie mentoring a young mother in her community
56 Watoto Herbert checks on a young patient
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My name is Herbert. I am a Clinician at our Watoto Neighbourhood Clinic. I help serve the medical needs of vulnerable mothers and their children, so that they can access medical care they otherwise could not afford. We also provide health education, nutrition support, psychosocial support, and home visits when needed. At the clinic, we are able to treat many painful, yet simple ailments and have already seen a reduction in the rate of diseases. Our goal is to help keep our mothers and children healthy—this is part of restoring their dignity. I’m Edith. The clinic was licensed and opened in 2021. Here, our Neighbourhood mothers and their children are able to receive much needed medical services and health education for free. Our support allows the families we see to get diagnosed and given medicine so they can have peace and begin to heal. With the help of The AIDS Support Organisation, we are also able to provide nutritional treatment.
Edith giving a consultation “ ” ”
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Since we opened, the clinic has already begun helping improve the health of those in our We’vecare. also seen a multiplication affect in the community. We teach women about health and hygiene, and they teach other women in the community things like the importance of washing hands, how to give first aid, how to prevent a UTI, how to prevent malaria and much more. This is helping extend our reach into our neighbourhoods and bring transformation.
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ach day is a new opportunity to dream. No matter what happened yesterday, we know Jesus offers all of us hope and hope is critical to life. Josephine and her children are living testimonies of the healing and restoration that come from knowing the love of Jesus. It’s our prayer that you know the difference you’re making, but also, we want you to know the same love and hope you see in the stories we share. No matter what you’ve been through, or what you’re going through now, there is hope for tomorrow. Jesus’ love will never let you down and it is because of this love that we can face tomorrow.
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Josephine learned more about the love of Jesus, how to forgive, how to become an even better mother, and critical business skills that she instantly put to good use. During the pandemic she was given relief funds and learned how to make masks. She began selling them and invested some of her profits in a small plot of land for farming. And now she’s in the process of buying some Thankslivestock.toGod, she is now thriving—and so are her kids. She’s also transforming her community. In 2021, she was elected as the Women Counsellor where she lives. God is giving her influence and she’s now helping women who were like she used to be.
Josephine’sWatoto
Josephine near a recently constructed pig pen
Josephine’s daughter, Peace
husband died leaving her to raise five children alone. Immediately, she started taking on various jobs to survive, like washing clothes and digging. She shared, “In 2018, a friend of mine who was already part of Watoto Neighbourhood invited me to come and get help because life was really hard for me and my children.” This was a turning point.
61Annual Stories Josephine’s son, Pius
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When a girl stays in school, we all win. Receiving an education allows for a life full of possibilities. It’s heartbreaking to know millions of girls throughout Africa drop out of school simply because they cannot afford sanitary pads. Together, we are changing this—and keeping girls in school.
Girls Received Pads
Keep A Girl In School
In addition to providing sanitary products to 10,924 vulnerable girls, we provided hygiene education, discipleship,support.and 10,924 1,547 Salvations As we teach practical things like hygiene, we never neglect to share about the life changing love of Jesus, and last year 1,547 girls received Christ as their Savior.
Although school closures caused by the pandemic affected our Keep a Girl in School initiative, we were still able to conduct outreaches within the communities we serve, providing sanitary products, hygiene education, discipleship, and support to 10,924 vulnerable girls in Uganda and South Sudan. From the generosity of our global partners to local leaders and school leadership who provided venues for discipleship classes and hygiene education, we continued to see God’s provision during our community outreaches.
The pandemic had a major effect in Uganda causing a spike in teen pregnancies, dropout rates, and genderbased violence. This made our efforts even more important than ever. And because of your love and support, our team continued to come alongside these precious girls and remind them that their lives We’rematter.thrilled to share 1,547 girls gave their lives to Christ. That’s 1,547 girls that could have become another statistic, but now have a new life full of purpose thanks to your continued support.
63Annual Stories
64 Watoto quiet dignity surrounds Mary as she sits in the front of the class. She has a Iaffordandcareparentschangedsharing,Maryisforstories.totoafford“MynotherfullthatinShebrothersschool.consistentlytheold,Atforsaysher—adeterminationpleasantaboutqualitythatsheisdestinedsomethinggreat.sixteenyearssheisawareofchallengesofattendingShehas13andsisters.understandsbeingschoolisaprivilegewillunlockherpotential.Butdeterminationisaboutheralone.parentscan’ttosendusallschool,soIstudychangetheirIwanttoprovidethem.That’swhyschoolsoimportanttome.”explainedherreality,“KeepaGirlinSchooleverything.Mystruggledtotakeofmeandmybrotherssistersandcouldn’tsanitarypads.Asagirlhadtofindaway.Iwould Mary A often have to use cloths during my period because that’s all I had. So, Keep a Girl in School is everything to me. They helped me stop worrying every month about my periods or where I would get the money to buy pads, so instead I could focus on my “Thankstudies.youto our sponsors for consistently helping and supporting us.”
65Annual Stories Watoto began in the 1980s in Kampala, Uganda. As the ministry grew, so did the need to facilitate support. Today, we have 11 support offices throughout the world where our partners and sponsors live. Each office is regulated by a local Board of Directors, ensuring good practices are followed at all levels. Take a look at the map below to see where our work is taking place throughout Uganda and South Sudan. S.UGANDASUDAN WATOTO CHURCH 13 LOCATIONS throughout Uganda 1 LOCATION in Juba, South Sudan WATOTO VILLAGE 3 VILLAGES Bbira, Suubi, Laminadera BABY WATOTO 2 LOCATIONS Suubi, Gulu MEDICAL 3 LOCATIONS Bbira, Suubi, Gulu KEEP A GIRL IN SCHOOL LOCATIONS throughout Gulu & Juba NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTER 2 LOCATIONS Kampala & Gulu 1 LOCATION Juba WATOTO FARM 4 LOCATIONS Buloba, Suubi, Lubbe, Bobi Where We Are UGANDA Gulu SOUTH SUDAN JubaKampala
2 Corinthians 9:10-11 says, “For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you… And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God” (NLT). Indeed, a chorus of thanks is already rising. Thank you once again!
As I reflect on another year that has passed, I am once again amazed at God’s faithfulness. Despite it being the first year in recent memory that we did not have a Watoto Children’s Choir come to Canada, you continued to provide care for the most vulnerable in Uganda and South Sudan. Thank you for your generosity and kindness!
Warm regards, Lorne CountryHamlynDirector, Watoto Canada Message fromWatoto Canada
Dear Watoto Family,
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 says, “…God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others” (NLT). That is what you have done for so many in Uganda and South Sudan this past year!
Because of you, women and children halfway around the world have food to eat, clothes to wear, a school to attend, a safe home and a family that loves them. Most importantly, they know that Jesus loves them and has not forsaken them!
As we look ahead and face a new day, we pray that God will bless you as you continue to invest in the kingdom of God.
Throughout this report, we’ve shared stories of lives restored because of your faithful support. Thanks to your love and generosity, together we were able to rescue some of Africa’s most vulnerable children, teach women their value in Christ and help restore hope to the hopeless. are just a few highlights showing the incredible impact you—and all our sponsors and partners throughout Canada— are making. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!
We're grateful for each and every sponsor who makes our work possible. And we celebrate the 181 new sponsors we welcomed into our Watoto family in 2021.
Small Business, Big Dreams
Last year, sponsors across Canada gave $3,787,821 to help us feed, clothe, educate, care for and share the love of Christ with the women, children and babies we've rescued, together. nearly 181 New Sponsors
Amount Raised By Sponsors
Below
$35,576
67Annual Stories
In Canada, we raised $35,576 for our Small Business, Big Dreams campaign. Your generosity restored dignity to 119 Neighbourhood Mothers and helped them start very own small business. Thank you! $3.8 million
Watoto Canada Highlights
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT To the Directors of Watoto QualifiedCanadaOpinion
We have audited the financial statements of Watoto Canada, which comprise the statement of financial position as at December 31, 2021, the statement of designated funds, and the statements of operations and changes in net assets and cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.
Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance for the Financial Statements
• Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.
In our opinion, except for the effects of the matter described in the Basis for Qualified Opinion section of our report, the accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Ministry as at December 31, 2021, and its its results of operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations ("ASNPO").
• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Ministry's financial reporting process.
Watoto Canada Financials
• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Ministry's internal control.
• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management.
We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.
Langley, British Columbia 2022 Chartered Professional Accountants
June 17,
In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Ministry's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Ministry or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
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Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with ASNPO, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. As part of an audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:
Basis for Qualified Opinion In common with many not-for-profit organizations, the Ministry derives revenue from fundraising activities the completeness of which is not susceptible to satisfactory audit verification. Accordingly, verification of these revenues was limited to the amounts recorded in the records of the Ministry. Therefore, we were not able to determine whether any adjustments might be necessary to fundraising revenue, excess of revenues over expenses, and net assets for the year ended December 31, 2021. Our audit opinion on the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2021 was modified accordingly because of the possible effects of this limitation in scope. We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Ministry in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in Canada, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our qualified opinion.
• Conclude on the appropriateness of management's use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Ministry's ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor's report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor's report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Ministry to cease to continue as a going concern.
69 Houses/SchoolsSponsorship and Sustainability Visit Watoto Funds 3,787,82186,63811,710 SUMMARY FROM WATOTO CANADA 2021 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OTHERREVENUESREVENUES EXPENDITURES VisitHouses/SchoolsGeneralProductSponsorshipCostsExpendituresandSustainabilityWatotoFunds 3,787,869250608,44886,649(45) Total Contributions 4,659,594 Total Program Services 4,483,171 SUPPORT SERVICES Management and Administration Total Expenses Net TotalIncomeSupport Services 223,245 223,245 4,706,41625,720 General Contributions 773,425 Interest Income Product Sales Total Other Revenues Total Revenues 4,732,136 21,995893 72,542$$$$$ $$ Net Assets at Year End 796,812$$$$$ STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES AND CHANGES IN NET ASSETS/INCOME STATEMENT REPORTED IN CAD $ 4.7%95.3% Program Services Management & General WATOTO CANADA EXPENSES 2021 To see the full 2021 Financial Audit Report for Watoto Canada, please go to watoto.com/Financials NOTES: *1 Government Subsidies - COVID-19 relief = $49,694 Government Subsidies 49,694 Gain on sale of property and equipment *1
WATOTO UGANDA (HEAD OFFICE) PHONE: +256 (0) 779 676 559 EMAIL: UGANDA@WATOTO.COM Global Support Offices WATOTO ASIA PHONE: +852 2639 9797 EMAIL: ASIA@WATOTO.COM WATOTO BRASIL PHONE: +55 (41) 3039 7102 EMAIL: BRASIL@WATOTO.COM WATOTO CANADA PHONE: +1 888 9WATOTO EMAIL: CANADA@WATOTO.COM WATOTO GERMANY PHONE: +49 152 553 00 288 EMAIL: GERMANY@WATOTO.COM WATOTO SWEDEN PHONE: +46 10 221 61 73 EMAIL: SWEDEN@WATOTO.COM WATOTO NORWAY PHONE: +47 977 61 010 EMAIL: NORWAY@WATOTO.COM WATOTO NETHERLANDS PHONE: +31 614 591 196 EMAIL: NEDERLAND@WATOTO.COM WATOTO UK PHONE: +44 203 225 1048 EMAIL: UK@WATOTO.COM WATOTO USA PHONE: +1 813 948 4343 EMAIL: USA@WATOTO.COM WATOTO AUSTRALIA PHONE: +61 (3) 9645 6547 EMAIL: AUSTRALIA@WATOTO.COM
