Quick update on slow progress!

Title says it all. We've been trying to catch up with our writing - letters of thanks to our supporters and with the books - hopefully the books will raise money which will in turn help us to help more people ...
I really must get on with the Gift Aid claim to HMRC. We rely on this to start the financial year off.
Providing that a person who donates, say £10 is a tax payer we can claim back the tax she/he paid on that money and the total gift becomes £12.50 - it's a real help.
The spare bed, which was clear when we returned (everything you gave us went with us to The Gambia and found a new home) is filling up again with donated goods - medical, educational & clothing.
So, things are happening. It just doesn't seem like it at times! I really must produce another Newsletter too.
Bother! Forgot to mention that the efforts of Jenny & Paul have meant that in addition to this blog we now have a website
www.gambiagoes.org.uk
Good things are happening!

Mariama

Sorry to report that Mariama - Glynn Jones - who has worked for SHINE Africa, the charity that builds and supports nursery schools in The Gambia, has had to be repatriated to the UK following a serious illness. All her friends wil be wishing her well and praying for her speedy recovery.

Welcome!

Ebou and Tom shake hands as we welcome him to the team. Tom wants a T-shirt now!

Our local agent.

Ebou and Tom. Ebou has recently agreed to be our local agent. This will save us a lot of leg work - and worry. We are very pleased to welcome him to our team.

Jones Nursery School, Mandinari

A rare view - only one child in sight. The school, built by SHINE, has been supported by GOES and other charities. The co-operation seems to produce the best results for the children of the village. The new classroom, built by a Dutch couple, blends in perfectly with the original structure.

All hands to the bantabar!

The headmaster lends a hand - it looks just like lego but it's a bit heavier!

Happy Gardening!

Remember a couple of years ago when GOES, with your help, established a garden in the compound of the Jones' Nursery School? Well, it worked! The children and staff can now enjoy fresh fruit (We can testify that it is delicious). Congratulations to the staff of the school - they have worked very hard to produce such fine crops. And thank you, because you provided the money to make it possible!