A project two years in the works is finally complete. 

Provision of Hope, directed by Karen Barkman from Steinbach, built Ma Esther and the 12 children she cares for a home in Liberia which burned beyond repair in December 2014. In May of last year, the home was demolished to the ground after qualified professionals found the building could not be salvaged. 

Barkman says in May 2015 they held the Raise The Roof fundraiser in Mitchell and raised $28,000 in one evening. She notes the large amount still fell short of the $58,500 they needed for the complete rebuild.

"Then Barkman Concrete selected Provision of Hope again to be their global charity. They managed to raise $13,845, which was amazing."

She adds the remaining funds came from two small fundraisers in Pine Falls and Elm Creek where $7,000 was raised at each event, as well, Barkman says there were several generous individuals. The fundraising pot was three-quarters full in May 2016 and the construction crew then started the rebuild in Liberia.

"I'm glad it was possible to do a rebuild for her in this community. I'm very, very grateful for all the hands that made this possible and especially those in southeast Manitoba. I find southeast Manitoba such a generous community when it comes to giving."

Ma Esther and the 12 children she cares for moved into the house on February 28, 2017. Barkman says Ma Esther was overwhelmed to tears with gratitude for the kindness of people who gave to the project.

Barkman notes they encourage sustainability and the house has a small shop for Ma Esther to sell dry goods and there's also an area to grow a garden, adding the older children will be able to help and learn these life skills. 

Read More:
Ma Esther's House To Be Rebuilt
Barkman Concrete Assists Overseas Projects
Fundraising Efforts Up In Smoke

*Photo credit: Karen Barkman