One Room in Zambia

KB Santa Rosa Ca. — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 04:38:45 GMT

How honorable these men are, and to think in the country we can't even get all fathers to pay child support let alone take in extra kids.

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Berta, Minot, ND — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 05:27:24 GMT

This is a sad situation for these people. It amazes me how these men can sit there, and talk matter of factly about the situation their country is in. (at least it seems this way to me.) For the people of this country and others like it, AIDS is a way of life like people in this country going to the mall.
I am hoping that these men are educating their children and the children they are raising about AIDS and the preventive measures they must take to survive.

One Room in Zambia

Angie, slc, utah — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 05:35:18 GMT

Wow----that is shocking and appalling!

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Karina — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 06:07:22 GMT

Wow, the work these men are doing is remarkable. Beautiful. I am sure God is blessing them & will provide a lot more for them.

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Stephen — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 10:02:22 GMT

That is an incredible story and one that really touches the heart. My only hope is that the world continues to donate towards education to will lay a knowledge base to prevent further infections and the variety of jobs available to a stumbling economy. It seems that as the scrouge of AIDS proceeds through Africa it has reached a critical mass of infected people and the only hope may only be through slowing it down and future prevention.

One Room in Zambia

Toronto, Ontario — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 11:26:22 GMT

I am always saddened when I hear of tragic stories like this about children orphaned, diseased, with no body to take care of them, no food, no shelter. A child forced to be an adult in a world they do not yet understand. It's unfair. The western part of the world hears these stories and we all go about our lives the next day. How fortunate we are and our children to not endure or truly understand their circumstances. How much longer must they suffer.

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Paul Weinberger Furlong, PA — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 12:10:34 GMT

John,
This problem is one if not the largest problem in Sub-Sahara Africa. Having spent a fair amount of time in Kenya, the same stories can be heard there. My hope and prayer is that more become aware and begin to take action in coming along side of these children and help.

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sandra, Fort Kent, ME — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 14:09:16 GMT

With all the research and all the money spent trying to find cures for HIV and cancer, why has so little been accomplished? Why can't the rest of the world act like these gentlemen? Forget about the profits for once,think about the humanity. What good will profits and power do when no one is left to work for you and there is no one for you to rule, no one to make the goods that you can buy?

One Room in Zambia

patty crumpler kansas city kansas — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 14:10:24 GMT

with all the people in the world looking for children they can't have maybe if the word was out of this need they could help. can someone tell the worl of this need. would the children be adoptible, i mean available.

One Room in Zambia

Tina Carter, Roanoke Va. — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 14:24:01 GMT

It is sad that with all the world's riches that there can be a place that this is a way of life for so many.

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Krista Ramon, Ionia, MI — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 14:30:36 GMT

This is occuring in the world, yet we also have "morons" leading countries, making threats of missle strikes, when they could be assisting this country. But of course, I forgot, they are only out for themselves. These are children, and no one cares. Well, time to wake up world--these children will become adults, and will know who helped them, and who did not. These future leaders will remember.

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Helen Wilson, St. Johnsbury, VT — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 14:32:15 GMT

Can anyone tell me about the Terranova School in Mazabuka? I received a letter from a boy there after sending a package through Operation Christmas Child. Is it an orphanage? What is the best way to get mail to him? I have sent a letter but do not even know if he can send one back.

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Julie Laughlin, Co. Springs, Co — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 14:49:00 GMT

It seems that this is the way it USED to be in the "olden days", I'm 47 years old and I was raised with good old fashioned family values. When my father died at 33 (I was 11, sister 9 and sister 13) I was NEVER afraid of not being taken care of. My aunts, uncles and grandparents were all right there for us. There was no question that, had my mother not been able to cope or something should happen to her, they would always be there to take us in. When my sisters were having problems, I always knew that it would be up to me and the rest of the family to take their children should they no longer be able to care for them. Along that line, I was never given the impression that the state or federal government was responsible for the quality of my life. Family and yourself, that's what you depended on. The break down of family values has alot to do with the break down of this country, the loss of moral values and personal integrity. I'm not surprised that the reporter for this article was so in awe of the dedication of these men to their families, it's a shame but, I would bet that the greater majority of Americans are in awe. I'm glad to say that, although I commend these men, I am not in awe. We'd all be better off thinking the way they do.

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Johann Gsegnet Dobbs Ferry NY — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 15:18:30 GMT

Hello,
Extraordinary.Is there a mechanism to send clothing food and bikes for these kids?
I have heard that Commercial Airliners will take donated items at no charge to these Countries.
Thanks.

One Room in Zambia

Barbara, Philly — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 15:22:07 GMT

To the person asking about the Terranova School in Mozabuku. You can go to the Starbucks website and they sell Zambian Black Label coffee grown at the estate. Part of the proceeds fund the school and gives the parents jobs. You can also find info at the US embassy website about the library project.

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Jerry Guevin, Scottsdale, AZ — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 15:50:52 GMT

So sad. When I lived in Zambia 45 yrs ago. Independence was the promise of a bright future for the country. I feel for the peoples of the Southern Province.

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Mike Patenaude, Winnipeg, Manitoba — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 15:53:09 GMT

Julie ... I don't understand how after reading a story like this, all you can focus on is the "breakdown of family values" (in america). The story is not about america or about your personal experience being cared for by extended family. It's about the devastation of HIV/AIDS in Africa. It's about villages with story after story of kids being cared for by grandparents, uncles, aunts ... of kids being cared for by kids ... Pick up the book 28: Stories of AIDS in Africa ... and see if somewhere deep inside of you a little bit of "awe" can be stirred.

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Michelle Romero Colorado Springs, CO — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 16:06:25 GMT

So sad. When I use the age old saying that things could be worse, This is a classic example. These children and adults could be you or I or worse our children.

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Michelle Romero Colorado Springs, CO — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 16:38:34 GMT

So sad. When I use the age old saying that things could be worse, This is a classic example. These children and adults could be you or I or worse our children.

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Steve, Monkton Md — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 16:40:48 GMT

These men know what compassion and love mean. Many people of the world do not. Only in a country where there is a real sense of community can this happen. I doubt that even 1 in 100,000 people in the most privileged country in the world would behave like these men. They are an excellent example of how to be. Peace to them

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Leonidas Lopez — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 17:20:24 GMT

Mike Patenaude, Julie Laughlin probably means that we need to re-think the shape of moral values are in today's world. This situation in Zambia has brought the best of family values that these people have, which is extraordinary. It sets an example that the world of today needs to see and learn to improve family and moral values. I am also in amazed by the gigantic effort of these Zambian men, but I understand Julie, in that it should not be something that was once standard and now is something of a bygone era and now when we look at it today, we think it is not possible. Those family and moral values should be the standard of today and of tomorrow as it was then. Maybe that will better our world.
God bless those men and their families.

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Chris Giles ,Washington — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 17:31:29 GMT

This is a story that I beleive should to share with the everyone. This is a story about real men, doing what is needed to be done. I work with young men who are sending time behind jail wall, and I think if they have a chance to be around men likeClemen Chipollilo many of them would how a better outlook on life. Thank you for this story.

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Saskatoon, SK — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 17:43:26 GMT

Hey, NAMIBIA and ZAMBIA are two different countries. Guess it's printers's devil. Link from MSNBC main page says Namibia. The stoy's title says ZAMBIA .
I know, not because Angelina Jolie and Brad Pit had their daughter there, but because I lived there for 6 years. Interesting, isn't it?

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Shawn, Tulsa, OK — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 17:58:02 GMT

I was in Zambia in 2000 for 2 months. I was with a team and we taught in an elementary school near Victoria Falls. I worked with the 3rd graders. These kids were awesome, yet they have no future. One of my favorite students was 9 years old - in week 2 of our trip, his mother died of AIDS, in week 5, his father died of AIDS. It was heartbreaking. I learned from the school's principal that he would now be moving to the Lusaka area to live with a family that does exactly what this article speaks of. Those men are a true God send!

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eugene k, owings mills MD — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:03:59 GMT

Zambia is full of very good hearted people. After 3 weeks that i spent there i reflected on my visit and thought to myself, wow not once did i hear a curse word, not once did someone try to rip me off. I never witnessed a fight or any sort of public display of negativity. They are a people who pride themselves about the fact that there has never been any violence in their country unlike the nighbor Zimbabwe. One of few places in this world where people do care about strangers, and this is Africa? WOW!

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M, South Carolina — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:06:04 GMT

What a message these men send to the rest of the world. My prayers are with them.

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Bernard Chirumarara, Stockton on tees, Cleveland — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:07:09 GMT

These men are angels. We not going to see angels in white gowns flying in the sky. They came this way and need to be praised and get help in any way. God is blessing them because he is the one who sent them the same way he did Jesus but its hard for all people to understand. Job well done.

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Katherine La Rocco, Naples Florida — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:07:19 GMT

How can we find a name and address of such families in Zambia tomatch up with individual persons to perhaps help. I would imagine that a monthly stipend of $25.00 or $30.00 would help hese folks a great deal. Personal one on one help. Enough retoric already. Does anyone know how to do this and make sure the person actually receives the money??
Katherine in Naples - I'd do it today!!!

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RG Las Vegas,NV — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:10:59 GMT

Do the people of Zambia not understand what causes AIDS/HIV or do they not care?

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Vicky, Nashville, TN — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:14:08 GMT

when articles like this are posted, it would be helpful to include links to charitable or other organizations that are trying to aid in the solution to these problems. We do contribute towards a child in Africa (not Zambia) each month and how wonderful if you or your children could each do the same. Since there are no links, do a search for child sponsorship Africa, or for AIDs support Africa, etc, I'm sure plenty of needful hits will come up.

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sick of idiots — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:27:39 GMT

The link on the front page says "One Room in Namibia" but the story is about Zambia. Are all African countries the same to who ever is responsible for the link? Seriously, this is supposed to be a news website. If it was about a town in France you wouldn't say Germany would you? Fact check people.

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mamat cham, everett, washington — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:32:49 GMT

these stories are hard to belief but they are true. i am an african studing in the US. these are realities that the world should pay attention a lot and sooner.

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matt stivers, Great Falls, Montana — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:34:58 GMT

wow thats horrible, i wish there were more men like those in the world, there would be so many less problems

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Kenneth P. Boyle — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:35:35 GMT

Thank, oh thank you for this article. Africa is such a paradox of absolute beauty and abominable suffering. What a blessing to meet such a courageous and loving group as you have here.

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impressed, Mesa, AZ. — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 18:43:44 GMT

please check your website headlines..Namibia is not Zambia :) Great story!!

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Brady White, Hickory, NC — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 19:00:01 GMT

I would like to help these kids. Buying coffee at Starbucks is a start, but I'd like to do more. What Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are working there, now? Which ones can we trust?

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tony sessa ajon52@msn.com — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 19:15:32 GMT

thats the way it should be when i grew up i came from a family that consisted of 4 aunts and 1 uncle together with their respective children all in the same neighborhood the extended family on my grandmothers side consited of 5 more familys each with their chidren all living in the same city when we got together from time to time at summer outings and christmas parties with the saugage and peppers and eggplant parmigian, the homemade wine and the mandolins let me tell that was living.we did'nt have money but we lived a good life.

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Patricia,Poulsbo,WA — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 19:25:14 GMT

Dear People, Do we have to have this happen in our country, before we listen.So much to bear for these poor people.Our country needs to help out on this one,how can we just stand,and do nothing.My heart and prayers go out to them, and I am calling my congress man, or anyone, who will listen to me, maybe,it will help.....

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John Wanda, Arlington, VA — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 19:37:08 GMT

This is the story of one village, in one country in Africa. Every village in Africa has stories like this. We should not be surprised when we read a story like this. We should be surprised that it has taken this long to come out.

I was born and grew up in Africa. I have seen the pain and deprivation of these children and their parents and families. Their lives are desolate, without hope. They don't live expecting an education, or food, or adoption. They just hope to survive each day that comes by.

We can either look away and go on with our lives, or we can help where we can. There are many opportunities for each one of us to help. The big aid organizations are not the way to do it though. There are small organizations that work deep in Africa that make the difference. If you want to check out our own work at the Arlington Academy of Hope, you can visit our website at www.arlingtonacademyofhope.org. You can either work with us or find a similar organization in the country you choose. But please, don't sit back until the next story from Africa comes across your computer. The need is now. Thank you.

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Keith, Austin, TX — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 20:17:42 GMT

"What good will profits and power do when no one is left to work for you and there is no one for you to rule, no one to make the goods that you can buy?"

To Sandra: I believe profits and power is exactly why this country is in this state. When there is no big industry to provide jobs, this is what happens. The employment is almost 100% according to the article, so what exactly are these people working to provide in the first place?

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Luis, San Antonio, TX — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 20:21:33 GMT

If more people had a bit more of compassion as these men have for the needy, ill, forgotten, abused, etc., the world would be a better place. Unfortunately, our material world is taking us to the point of no return.
As for Julie: What's the point of your diatribe? How does the breakdown of family values come to be part of this sad story?
Oh, how silly of me. You live in the same state where that "family values guy" lives. That will explain it.

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Jamie, New Orleans, LA — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 20:48:09 GMT

Spending money on AIDS vaccines and AIDS meds feels good but is not very cost effective. Put some of that money into an effort to supply free condoms to Africa and other poor countries. That would both attack AIDS and would reduce the number of parentless children. The present official US position on birth control is heartless, cruel, and ineffective.

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Sean, Jacksonville, FL — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 20:52:57 GMT

Mr. Larson, if you're ever back in that office with those men, I would hope that you would pass along to them that they have earned the respect of people 10,000 miles away that they will never meet, just by doing the right thing. They have stepped up to the plate and done what's right, and to see that not just by one or two individuals, but by many, is truly inspiring. I agree that we've lost this to a great degree here in the more 'civilized' United States, but despite the disease and poverty, in some ways these men are more civilized than we are. Family is what truly matters, and most of us Americans, in our drive for material and financial success, tend to forget this. These men at least have their priorities straight, and it's good reminder for us all.

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ZS, Denver, CO — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 21:43:39 GMT

condoms,condoms,condoms,condoms,and more condoms!

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ChiChi, Atlanta, GA — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 21:48:30 GMT

Thanks for this report. It is so accurate. I come from Southern Africa and Zambia and its neighboring countries are suffering from the same crisis. You are so right, kids are raising kids in southern Africa because most of them lost their parents to AIDS. If they don't raise each other, their elderly grandparents have to take them in, or kind relatives like those four guys.

I salute those men. They portray the true heart of Africa, which says it takes a village to raise a child. But with the pandemic so widespread, it is so difficult for the kind-hearted to help everyone. One gets overwhelmed no matter how much he or she may want to help. Imagine it like this: These 4 men are educated and smart, so they can afford to help a few more kids besides their own. But the saddest part is that the majority of the people are not as fortunate as these 4 men. They can hardly raise their own kids, let alone someone else's. My heart bleeds for Africa.

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Javier Ortiz, Indian Trail, NC — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 21:55:07 GMT

This events occur in the world to try and test the rest of us. The day will come when many of us will be told that HE was hungry and we never fed HIM; thirsty and we never gave HIM anything to drink; naked and we never clothed HIM; sick and we never visited HIM. It will be a sad, sad day for many of us. God have mercy.

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Becky, Maine — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 22:15:47 GMT

Sad, indeed. And to think that what our president has to offer is not condoms, but the choice of abstinence.

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nicky breakspear, garden city , NY — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 22:20:11 GMT

Does anyone know how I can get funds directly to these people? even one particular family? Is it a clinic he found them in? It must have a number there with contacts to doctors or nurses. If I had that info I would take it from there. Thank you.

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frank lee stbg pa — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 23:06:06 GMT

and it is immoral to get the people to use condoms to stop the spread of aids.

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USA First — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 23:11:14 GMT

These children are of no use to anyone. There are too many mouths to feed already. God has his plans. We should let God's plans play out, and help America first.

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Star , Auburn, CA — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 23:16:20 GMT

I sponsor a child in Zambia through World Vision. They are a good and trust worthy organization. The money goes to help the family and community. You can sponsor a child there also. Just go to the World Vision web site.

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Carrie, West Chester, Pennsylvania — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 23:20:37 GMT

It's truly incredible to hear this story but I am not surprised. There are actually more compassionate people in the world than bad people. Americans must realize how fortunate they are in every aspect of life.

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Saddened in NJ — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 00:27:36 GMT

Why is such a disgusting comment such as posted by allah tikrit allowed to be posted? I thought there was some screening mechanism here.

How does one find a way to donate either money or goods without it being stolen by some black market once there, or taken by those who would simply use it for themselves?

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Jamie, Milwaukee, WI — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 00:32:02 GMT

Keith in Austin: You may want to re-read the article, it actually says UNemployment is near 100%. I'm not trying to be rude in pointing out your mistake but I would think it would make a huge difference in your comment asking "what are these people working for?" Thanks.

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Anne, Boulder, CO — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 00:37:11 GMT

There is a movement out there that advocates for making children central to all discussions of public policy-domestically and globally: go to www.mothersactingup.org. And there are not for profit efforts to understand how best to address the problems of orphans from AIDS and other: www.lundyfoundation.org, www.globaleducationfund.org.
www.beadforlife.org.
Prayers are good--contributions are better. God already weeps for his children.

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Kristi, Tucson, Az — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 00:40:20 GMT

It's easy for people to say 'OMG, with all the advances in medicine why doesn't the world forget about profits and help these people'... The fact is is that the first-world countries have their own problems and there are simply limited resources, period. I mean, who DOESN'T want to see the African's plight improved, but who'd be willing to see less go into their own country's educational system, or health care, or ANY program that is benefiting their own populations...

Again, it's easy to say 'why don't countries DO something' but very few are willing to just give away to others when the money being spent on Africa or other third-world countries comes right out of their own neighborhoods. Contrary to what some people might think, the world's resources aren't infinite...

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Della, Cordova, Tn — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 00:46:22 GMT

What a testimony of the power and grace of God in human beings who even though they may not have an abundance would still be willing to share the little they have with those who have nothing. These men are living examples displaying the character of God "a father to the fatherless". Oh that every nation would be filled with men like these; there would be no more hungry, homeless children on our streets. How can we help these men share in this burden of love and show the love of Jesus Christ? For Jesus, Himself said that if we would do this to the LEAST of His brethren, we would have done it to Him.

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Lorraine, Alexandria, Virginia — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 01:39:16 GMT

Organizations such a Compassion International and World Vision work with individual villages in Africa and other impoverished areas of the world. For little more than $1 a day, they will help feed, clothe, immunize, and educate children in need through your generous Sponsorship. As a sponsor, you will have the opportunity to correspond with your child, to get to know them, to support and encourage them in their daily struggles, and simply, to make a difference.
Literally, you will be giving life to these children. And I will guarentee you that the life support that you give through Sponsorship will pale in comparison to the blessings it brings to you and your family.

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Bob San Diego, CA — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 02:12:32 GMT

Islam is not really a religion of extremism; it is a religion so violently misinterpreted so that the brutal desires of a few ideologues will be justified. Like all religions in the history of man, Islam does demand adherence to its teachings, and those who are Muslims and breach their adherence to Islamic values are punished. This is where the terrorists got their idea of how they might advance their own interpretation of Islam for their own ideologies. Extremists deserve to be extinguished off the face of this earth and freedom of speech should notever include hateful language directed at other religious, political, and economic institutions and individuals.

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Dick Hertz, Provo, UT — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 02:27:01 GMT

Yeah it's admirable, but my thought is send these people birth control instead of money for AIDS. Obviously scientists around the world aren't concerned about curing it anyway, but hey, give me more additives in the food I eat so when I die my liver will already be pickled. Don't forget though, what happens to Paris Hilton is way more important than the worlds' problems. In fact, we should start new channels, one for each "star" in Hollywood we could give a crap less about. Just think, 900 more channels added to your digital cable for an extra $400 a month.

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Collins — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 03:00:13 GMT

This situation is NOT about who can take care of those children! It's about Children having NO ONE to care for them. You may have been blessed to have aunt's and uncles to care for you because too, they could have monitory and health wise. To these children that luxary do not exist. Lets continue to give from our hearts to these and all that are in need to the extent that we can.

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Kathleen, Prescott Valley, arizona — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 03:00:28 GMT

All of us applaud the incredible efforts of these wonderful men to raise the next generation of children. They are setting an example for the world. I am headed that way in March and can not wait to help. Please identify for us appropriate and trustworthy websites to assist everyone in Africa.

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John Nkruma — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 03:08:00 GMT

AIDS could be cured in one generation. With a pill: an aspirin. Held between the knees.

Why spend billions on ineffective research, or offer condoms, when the real problem is having sex with multiple partners?

Why won't we primary countries tell that to these unfortunate Africans? Don't we want them to have longer, fulfilling lives?

Yes, these men are admirable in taking care of the orphans. But why do we all have blinders on? Would anyone knowingly kiss a person who has tuberculosis?

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JLS Yonkers NY — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 03:09:54 GMT

Keith Austin Texas. I think you missed the mark bro. The story says the unemployment is 100%. Those folks do not have jobs! Thats why family members when available cannot afford to add another mouth. They do not have the resources.

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Greg — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 03:20:32 GMT

Maybe she's trying to say the men represent family values like she was used to when young and that this country doesn't have these values anymore and that's why we're in awe. Not sure but maybe her interpretation.

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cw Baker City, OR — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 03:42:56 GMT

It saddens me to read about the children in Africa, but years ago I spoke to an Southern African woman who said the government had passed a law in her country to prevent people from giving money to the children in the streets. So every morning she packed a dozen or so "lunches" of bread, fruit, some proten, with a bottle of fresh water. Instead of given the children who begged money, she gave them a lunch. She said she was surprised to learn that one of her "regulars" shared his lunch with three other siblings. It costs so little to help children in some countries. Holt International Childrens Services has a sponsorship program in China that for $25 a month you can sponsor a baby in foster care until it can be adopted. Check out some of these programs. For the cost of five lunches a week in America, you can sponsor a child. More programs like this should be available. But the African woman told me one of the main problems was that many people did not want to support any children not born into their tribe. We all need to learn that a child is a child and tribe, color, religion or other factors are not important, food and education are the backbones of improvement.

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s andy Greensburg Pa. — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 03:54:35 GMT

Why don't we have adopt a family and all the children in the schools can contribute to this cause? Sd Greensburg Pa.

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JH — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 04:01:55 GMT

Is there some way we can send donations of condoms to all these married people who misteriously end up with AIDS.

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Colette, Rocklin, Ca — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 04:08:19 GMT

I like helping families build their businesses through Kiva.org. Kiva works with local partners around the world, including Africa. The partners use the $25 loans made through Kiva to loan to people with microbusinesses. Sometimes a small store owner just needs some capital to stock shelves. I feel like I am helping someone AND preserving his or her dignity because it is a loan. Most loans are paid back within a year. So far fifteen of my loans have been repaid!

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shelby Seattle, WA — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 04:49:05 GMT

For people interested in helping Zambian kids check out the Lazarus Project at www.lpof.org 100 percent of donations are sent directly to the project which is located in Lusaka and run by Zambians. They don't just feed, house and educate these kids they also work with kids at risk in the community to try to keep them with their relatives and provide financial assistance for food and school fees.

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Chris Yanke — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:02:37 GMT

It's inspiring to see that even in the darkest times there are those who recognize the light of believing in the future. I'd say that everything aside, I'm glad there are those who have enough in their hearts to share with others if only for the reason of giving someone a good life.

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Dawn Benson, AZ — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:11:49 GMT

Dear Allah Tikrit ak,

I was shocked to read your comment. I am thankful that these men follow Jesus' second great command of loving their neighbors as themselves. Yes, we all die and yes, we all face judgment. I believe that love and selflessness will endure the fire of judgment and will yield crowns while hatred and wrath will not.

"For God so loved the world..." John 3:16. The world includes parents who die of AIDS, their orphaned children, and even you. Turn to love, Allah. He is knocking on your heart. Turn to love and be His servant.

One Room in Zambia

Kebby T.Shampongo — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:42:33 GMT

The colleague that visited Zambia has made rigth observations.Being Zambian and resident it saddens me to see alot of young kids waking up with little hope that they shall eat and have better education.Certain organisations like www.ypdoz.org and www.malalosport.com are doing commendable works and you can give a hand in uplifting the standards of the young people in Africa.

One Room in Zambia

Justin, Florida — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:50:03 GMT

Let me be the devil's advocate and throw a spanner into this wheel.... We all know of the tuskegee experiment (http://www.infoplease.com/spot/bhmtuskegee1.html. Npt pointing @ the U.S. inparticular, but who's to say that AIDS is not another experiment only this time using an entire continent as the control group? On a more serious note - knowledge is always the best weapon and from the tone of most of these comments, alot of people are uninformed about AIDS right here in the U.S. So please read - http://www.avert.org/hiv-african-americans.htm

One Room in Zambia

Barbara,Homestead,Florida — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 06:04:42 GMT

This is just heartbreaking. How can we help these men with these children ? How can we get aid to them ? They are making a differcen in these young lives.

One Room in Zambia

Jill, Superior, CO — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 07:00:37 GMT

I went searching for ways to help and found this site: http://www.aidforafrica.org/members.jsp where many charities that help Africa are listed. The Arlington Academy is mentioned (and seems to be an outstanding organization in Uganda).

On that list, the only link that is specifically dedicated to helping the people of Zambia was here: http://www.zambiasscholarshipfund.org/ It is a volunteer organization focused on helping to educate future teachers in Zambia. It seems well established and able to put donations to direct use helping bring a better future to Zambia.

With some further searching I found: Cecily's Fund ( http://www.cecilysfund.org/us/index.html ) This is also a lean, cost-conscious charity with three goals: to help thousands of Zambian AIDs-orphans complete school, educate them to avoid acquiring AIDS, and help the funding of future teachers. The charity is British with branches in the US and elsewhere.

Another avenue is http://heifer.org in their fight against world hunger they have quite a few projects in Zambia; the following link is not-Zambian-specific but is targetted toward helping AIDs orphans: http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.1676171/?msource=0606wspecial .

Also, I recommend http://kiva.org which is dedicated to providing microloans to working people in poor countries who need a leg-up to grow their business. I made 2 donations at kiva.org last week and they've already been distributed to the people in need. I don't see any Zambians on the current Need list, but there are other poor African countries mentioned.

Whatever you choose, we can all help make a difference.

One Room in Zambia

RP of DC — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 07:19:54 GMT

In this day and age of the Institunalization and Globalization of Selfishness it's almost incomprehensible to so many people in the western world that those people in the third world with almost nothing left for themselves could still do much for the absolutely helpless. They never think of anything else except how to make their lives more comfortable and pleasurable. Well, wait till you get to Hell when you die coz all of us will.

One Room in Zambia

Abubaker, Iowa City, IA — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 08:12:24 GMT

U.N need to adjust its concerns. Now it looks like a government with one department; War department!

One Room in Zambia

Allyson, New Orleans,LA — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 08:47:12 GMT

It just makes me ill,that Africa,once again, is the continent that continues to suffer so much. Whether it be from AIDS,hunger,drought, or war. We all sit here in our air conditioned homes, with stocked pantries and medical care. We won't take care of our own why should people living on another continent believe we care enough to help them?!
So some may send $5 or $10 here and there,a flimsy band aid that won't cover a festering wound. No, I do not have the answer to this problem but I think if we could look at this as intelligent human beings we could come up with a way for us to help the African people help themselves and not depend on hand outs from the rest of the world. Start with,giving them fair wage for the products they export and are exploited by us when we buy from Wal mart and the like.

One Room in Zambia

Emily, Philly — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 09:21:22 GMT

A very touching story indeed. By the way, those who want to help - buying coffee at Starbucks certianly isn't going to do the trick. A few cents may go to children in Africa while millions of dollars are spent to bomb innocent Palestinian kids. Not the kind of "charity" I'm interested in.

One Room in Zambia

Michael, Los Angeles, CA — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 10:09:24 GMT

I am Zambian born and bred but currently a college student in the US. I get mixed feeling when I read these articles, one of them in that as a Zambian myself I feel helpless in my peoples struggles. The other, that its sad the media always points out the negative, AIDS AIDS AIDS, is that all Zambians and other sub saharan countries are known for. I appreciate hearing stories such as these though, because it shows another aspect of who we are as a people.

In response to some peoples views on why Zambia struggles with the AIDS situation. First and foremost I'd like to say back in 1993 when I was still in zambia, I heard about AIDS on the local radio, there were big billboards, and foreign agencies coming in to give us lessons on the subject. This was back in 93 its 2007 and its not gotten any better. This means that all this talk has put nothing more than a dent in the problem. In my opinion focusing on the result which is AIDS, is inefficient, what we need to do is focus on the cause, which happens to be lack of opportunity. One way to do this would be through investments into the country, allowing for more jobs and opportunities to arise.

I could gone forever but this comment has been way to long. I will leave on this note a Zambian recently won, the Nobel Green Prize, showing that aids though prevalent is not the only factor in defining who we are as people.

One Room in Zambia

Malcolm Chabala, Lusaka, Zambia — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 10:17:22 GMT

Hi all, Iam from Zambia and the HIV/AIDS situation is devastating and ravaging the economy. I applaud those men in the story, but its not just man taking care of AIDS ophans; its also the women, grannies and other children.
Zambia is not just about AIDS, there are alot of positive things happening in the economy, tourism,education and agriculture. People are trying hard to improve their lot. You can ask Bill Clinton, Laura Bush, the Gates and Oprah Winfrey who have all been to Zambia recently and didnt catch some sort of disease!!! Of course we are thankful to all aid organisations making a difference in people's lives Malcolm Chabala

One Room in Zambia

Darling — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 12:27:30 GMT

Hello All,
I am an African born American who has resided in the US for about 30 years now and also travelled the rest of the world and seen the various soceities. As touching as this story is, let us not forget that we do not have to change the American soceity before the people in Zambia can be helped. The reason that the world is not one country is the uniqueness of the soceities. The US is "the best country in the world" because it is not built around the kind of collective responsibility for the larger family as can be seen in other soceities; the soceity is more individualistic. In other soceities, it truly takes a village to raise a child; Hilary Clinton did NOT invent that saying; it is the motto of other soceities. We should let the people of America do what they know how to do best, donate resources to help. Having said that, the peoples of Zambia need education on AIDS and a change in the execution of their sex lives. Also, what has the government of Zambia done about this crises in the country? The best way to teach people how to survive is to show them how to take care of themselves. Other peoples of the world, including the US, have their own problems and cannot be expected,to be problem solvers for other, long term. If you want to feed a person for a day, provide food for the day but if you want to feed a person for life, teach that person how to fish and grow food.

One Room in Zambia

Faye Goodman, Manchester — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 13:16:33 GMT

I can only stand up in respect for these brave and generous men, God Bless them. I wish Mr. president would be aware of stories like that, so he might put his priorities right. Let us all be allowed to practice humanity,let us forget the oil and our love to be superiors, let us allow our true conscious reactivate again. Only then the world will be a better place.

One Room in Zambia

Ruth, Woodbridge, VA — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 13:17:46 GMT

Bringing the reality of HIV/AIDS in Zambia begins dialogue and action. Sub saharan Africa is severly affected and thanks to community churches and ordinary people in the communities of Zambia and Kenya who have created homes, food drives and resources to provide to children and families orphaned by the HIV/AIDS crises.

One Room in Zambia

Myself WPB FL — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 13:41:47 GMT

A pity that Africa is too resource rich. That is the sole reason these people are destitute and dying (genocide). They are not capable of fending off corporate invasion. I'm sure Jesus will help them, jsut ask Pat Robertson whi is helping himself to their riches. Does he aid these people to any degree ???????

One Room in Zambia

Jules — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 13:50:38 GMT

to Keith in Austin ,TX please pay attention to what you read.Or are you reading what you hope is written in the article and not what is actually written?The article states that there is a 100% unemployment in the region and not 100% employment.that means that nobody has a job.

One Room in Zambia

Miguel Luevano — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 13:59:03 GMT

Education,would prevent these from happening,but since it has allready happened,good heart and donations are very needed,let us all who desire and can afford to contribute do it and help out these brothers and sisters.

One Room in Zambia

D, Austin, TX — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 14:41:03 GMT

It doesn't matter what any of us think or say, we are fighting a losing battle. Jer 10:23, its going take a lot more than buying coffee. And sitting around writing words, isn't going make us feel any better about are selfs!

One Room in Zambia

Debra Kellerhals Benbrook, Texas — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 14:41:09 GMT

Mike Patenaude in Manitoba,"America" is spelled with a capitol A. Both referals to our country semed to be lacking that important tid-bit. The location controversy only shows how this situation is an equal reality to different areas in the world.A trusted agency is greatly needed,however when the average CEO is rewarded 1000 % more than the work force, and government rules and coffers must be filled, how long can these people wait? Hopefully some good 'ol brain storming can result from this,and us everyday Joe's can lend the hand that as human beings we so readly extend.God Bless those who help and God Bless the childern.

One Room in Zambia

Anna Banda,merion station,pa — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 18:55:36 GMT

Thanks to the bill gates and mellinda foundation.Of many Billionaires these are the ones who have done one of the most solutions to help Africa in a most sensible way.He gave a grant to a drug company in Europe for a research to find a cure or vaccine for malaria and the good news is that this has not been in vain.The search is almost over and there is hope for Millions of African Children and Adults.Feeding and clothing alone can not solve the problems of the motherland,education like Oprah winfrey has done for south african to promote girl child education and Bill Gates and his Wife are doing to tackle Health issues in Africa,are the possible and reasonable works that africans can receive.Let Africans contrbute their ideas to find the cure for Aids.Am a ZAMBIAN living in U.S.A.