In Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement, we run community centers – places where people can get together, hold meetings, connect with others. And behind the scenes, there are a few generous individuals who make sure everything runs smoothly. Who ensure that the space is welcoming and hospitable for all who gather there – our cleaners.
These incredible women are volunteers – they’re not paid for their time. But they don’t have proper cleaning tools, using instead what they can find – an old piece of foam mattress to clean the floor, a broom made of twigs to sweep.
“The idea that they would volunteer to do this work,” said Brent, 365 team member in Bidi Bidi, “it’s really moving.”
We couldn’t agree more. So for Day 85, we’re honoring these remarkable women. We’re equipping them with tools to do their jobs with dignity, with pride.
Each cleaner received a mop, a squeegee broom, gum boots, and other cleaning supplies like soap. They no longer have to use torn clothes or old mattresses as mops, or spend time looking for soap to use on the floors.
Our cleaners would have voluntarily given their time to help, regardless of the supplies at hand. That’s the kind of women they are. But now, they know that we see their hard work – their amazing gift to us. We can never repay their goodwill and generosity, but we can try – one moment of thanks at a time.
