Ivan Passy & Jojo - The Dignity Project

It goes without saying that Bill and Barbara felt very much at home in Uganda. On Christmas Day 1997 Bill and Barbara were fortunate enough to meet 8 year old Passy Claire and 9 year old Ivan.

The children were hand delivered to Bill and Barbara by their 70 year old Grandmother who had sadly lost her 3 sons to HIV/AIDS. This tragedy had left her with 10 grandchildren to look after; and unfortunately she was no longer able to provide the support her grandchildren needed and asked Bill and Barbara if they would be willing to foster them. It was at this point that Passy and Ivan became part of the family.

Maintaining that all important link to their grandmother, the children saw their family on a regular basis and it was during one of these visits that Bill and Barbara met Jojo, Passy and Ivan’s 4 year old cousin. Lacking the necessary support in her Grandmothers care, Jojo became the newest addition to the family.    

It goes without saying that The Dignity Project has come a long way since its establishment, and with their committee behind them Bill and Barbara continue to work to provide for those less fortunate than ourselves. Extracts from their journal adapted by a committee member.

“Despite the challenging times during all of our projects we still find working in Africa rewarding and fulfilling.....”
Bill and Barbara McDonald Wood

Ivan is now 20 years old and two years ago Bill & Baza brought him over to the UK where he studied for an ECDL (European Computer Driving License) at Edinburgh University Settlement.

Passy is 19 years old and completed Senior school and is now running her own small business just outside Kampala. Passy will be joining the staff of The Dignity Project.

Jojo is living in Kampala with extended relatives and currently attending Primary School. Bill and Baza have continued to support the children though their education with help from friend and colleague Andrew Laboke of Gulu.