Kilimanjaro climb

PFJ Ministries volunteer Liz Bowes is preparing to climb Africa's highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, to raise money for some of the vulnerable and at-risk communities supported by the charity.

Exposing herself to temperatures ranging from 30 to minus 20 degrees Celsius as she climbs to a point 6,000 metres above sea level is going to be a physical and mental challenge for the 31-year-old, who begins her ascent on 10 September 2010.

"As well as raising money for people who are sacrificing much for the sake of others, I'd like to raise awareness of the situations and circumstances which so many of the world face," she explained.

"For example, I met Esther in DR Congo. She has not heard from her husband for over five years since he went to fight in the war in the east of the country. She has no idea if he is alive or not, and is struggling to provide for her children. Despite this, she has also taken in street children from the local community and is now caring for 20 children in her small two-roomed house.

"Sarah Sabiiti is the director of Blessed Hill School in Uganda's capital, Kampala, rescuing children who are living on the streets having been abandoned by their parents, as well as orphans who have no extended family to care for them. Out of her own pocket Sarah pays for the children to receive an education, providing uniforms, educational supplies, food, medicines and staff wages.

"It is people like Esther and Sarah whom PFJ are committed to helping, and I'm hoping that my climb will help offer a hope for their future."

Before beginning the ascent of Kilimanjaro, Liz will first touch base in Mwanza, near Lake Victoria to support Mwanza International Community Church in their efforts to set women up with small businesses. The church, supported by partners in the UK including PFJ, offers training in practical skills, such as tailoring, and start-up grants to buy equipment, such as sewing machines and material. Such initiatives provide widows and single mums in Tanzania with an income and give prostitutes an alternative way of making a living.