On behalf of several (previously) homeless children in Nepal, I would like to thank 76 volunteers known as the Friends of the Dream Home. This ad hoc group raised $2,785 on July 21 toward a clean water well at a new orphanage in Milan Chhok, Nepal. The Poulsbo Rotary awarded the orphanage $5,000 toward the cost of the $8,242 water well.

Under the direction of missions chairwoman  Theresa Rose, Poulsbo First Lutheran Church raised $25,000 to build the orphanage. In addition, $2,100 for bunk beds was provided by the Poulsbo Rotary.

Naveen Chaudhary envisioned the FUNdraiser. Bonnie Pedersen offered her home as the venue. Seventy-six volunteers and participants made it a reality.Barbecued pulled pork was prepared by Brian Deely of Thrivent Financial, Silverdale Office. Usha McCollum brought food from the Himalayan Chutney.

Chris Morrissey contacted several local businesses for raffle items. Several individuals donated silent auction items. Live entertainment was volunteered by Cal Schmitz, the Poulsbo Sons of Norway Youth Folk Dancers and “dance within.” Many thanks to the North Kitsap Herald for providing publicity.

Although Poulsbo First Lutheran and the Poulsbo Rotary have been supporting this great project, The Friends of the Dream Home have emerged to provide additional support. The orphanage currently is home for 15 orphans, but has room for five more. If you would like to help sponsor a child, please contact Naveen Chaudhary at (206) 799-1234. The group is hopeful of building an addition to more than double of the number of children who can be accommodated.

The Friends are currently collecting laptops to help the children to become computer literate and also strengthen their English skills.

Pastor Don and Elaine Jukam
Poulsbo