Emerald Foundation Uganda

Emerald Foundation Uganda is a Christian, non-profit, non-governmental, charity organization in Uganda tackling isolation, loneliness, neglect, abuse, and poverty among vulnerable elderly people in the Teso sub-region of Uganda. Our care service currently extends to five out of the 11 districts in Teso, encompassing Soroti—where our headquarters are situated—as well as Kalaki, Amuria, Katakwi, and Serere. In each of these districts, we have dedicated resident coordinators who serve as our direct liaisons, and directly report to the team at the headquarters weekly. We have also established reliable and strong connections with community local council chairpersons, district governance structures, churches, and other grassroots organizations, and regularly partner with them in our various endeavors. Older people, aged 65 years and above are our beneficiaries. In Teso sub-region, their population is approximately 12,000, and face profound challenges stemming from historical conflicts such as the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) war, the Uganda People’s Army (UPA) war, and cattle rustling. These conflicts have left deep emotional scars, as many have lost peers, loved ones, and properties. Previously, many elderly individuals in rural areas relied on the care of their grandchildren. However, with urbanization on the rise and younger generations migrating to urban areas, elderly people are left with little to no support at home. Consequently, both men and women experience loneliness, neglect, and poverty, lacking basic necessities such as food, clothing, and decent shelter. Many also endure various forms of abuse, including physical, financial, and even sexual abuse. These elderly people, are our target beneficiaries. From each of the districts of our current reach, we have identified, registered and are directly supporting at least 711 most vulnerable ones. However, this number represents only a portion of the elderly population in need within our target areas