Children of Songea Trust

Q: How do you know that the Trust is making a difference?

A: We have a very close relationship with GSM. Most of our trustees have visited Tanzania and have seen the progress that GSM is making with your support.

Q: How did the Trust get involved with Good Samaritan Mission?

A: The Trust was created after Neil and Caroline Mathers returned from working as VSO volunteers with GSM. Links with family and friends were established during this period, which flourished into the what is now the Children of Songea Trust.

Q: How long has GSM been going?

A: GSM was established in 1999 by a group of local people who felt that something needed to be done to help orphaned children to learn and be healthy.

Q: How many people work at GSM?

A: GSM is run by local volunteers. There are currently around 12 people who work full-time in a variety of roles, including teachers, counsellors, youth workers, and a cook.

Q: Where is Songea?

A: Songea is in the South West of Tanzania and has a population of around 130,000.

Q: How much does it cost to provide support?

A: The Trust provides allowances for the volunteers at GSM, and helps to meet the cost of resources, such as food, educational materials, and health care. This costs approximately £5,000 per year.

Q: What is the long-term plan for the Trust?

A: We hope that GSM will be able to develop their capacity to sustain its activities long-term. We are exploring ways in which GSM can generate income without heavy reliance on grant funding.