This week we received our "family" assignments for our Mozambique trip. So, on this day when most of us are celebrating our fathers at BBQs and on golf courses, it seemed like a good time to share some info on some folks who aren't so lucky.

First, though, I wanted to take a moment to thank my incredible dad for being there any and every time we needed you. And for raising us in a way where we simultaneously wanted for nothing and appreciated the value of hard work. Moms have a tough job, but dads are usually the unsung heroes of the family. So, cheers to you, Dad, for helping make me the person I am today. I love you!

OK, on a more sobering note, here are the profiles for the folks we'll be helping in October:

Nosta Cuna & 4 Children – Celeste (12), Eclipson (8), Cheila (5), and Juliao (1)

Nosta is a 32 years old, HIV positive widow. Her husband passed away almost two years ago and she was already pregnant with her youngest son Juliao who is also HIV positive. After the passing away of her husband, she was sent away by her in-laws, so she moved back to her mother’s plot where she and her son now reside. The house they live in is terribly small and in terrible condition.

Felixmina Matavel (42) and her 11 year old son Alvaro

Felixmina is a single mother - HIV positive and under treatment. Alvaro is currently in 6th grade. They live in a little shack which their neighbors helped build after their first home burned down. It is in really bad conditions with a dirt floor and it leaks.

Felixmina works on the fields in order to provide for her son. She sends him to school on a daily basis and does her best to help him with his school work but she only went as far as fourth grade herself.
“We have really been struggling, our house burnt down a while ago. Our neighbors were kind enough to help us rebuild it and also gave us zinc for the roof. But in January because of the cyclones the roof was almost blown away and it now leaks. We are forced to stand when it rains as the house is drenched. I feel so blessed that we have been selected; my dark days are now over. Thank you so much and may God bless you”.

You can help make a difference!
Due to the amazeballs support of my family and friends, I've already met my fundraising goal for this trip. However, there's nothing stopping you from donating a bit more! Just click the green DONATE button at the top right of this page. Mo' money = mo' houses for those in need. Or, if you're feeling particularly awesomesauce, you can always help one of my teammates reach their target. Their profiles are all linked from the team page. Pick one, and toss 'em a little cash. I'm sure your dad would approve.

Happy Father's Day!