Background:
A few months ago, I wrote here and here about Muia and the desperate condition of his family. He and his family of 8, have "no land of their own on which they could raise animals or plant crops. Without land, the family has no means of sustaining their meager lifestyle." Video tribute to the family.
A few weeks ago, Stanley Mutunga, the President and founder of Tumaini International, and his wife Rose presented Peggy and me with a unique opportunity. Though Tumaini has served more than 1000 children and their families, Muia's situation is unique in its despair. So much so that Tumaini has explored how the family could be helped with land on which the family could have a house and make a living. For about $8,500, the family could have two acres of land, and two two-room homes. The Tumaini staff would help the family to plant and grow crops and raise animals. In time, the family could survive from what's produced from their land and their labor. Muia's mom would be saved from having to sacrifice her body and dignity in order to provide for her family.
Running for Muia:
Peggy and I left dinner with the Mutunga encouraged by the opportunity. We didn't know where the money would come from but, it was clear, as we prayed, that we needed to seize the chance to help Muia. Around that same time, Peggy had been training with our friend, Cindy Hoverson, for the L.A. Marathon. Until that point, Peggy was only interesting in running with Cindy to help her train. After hearing of Muia's situation, Cindy suggested that, perhaps, Peggy could get sponsors for running the marathon herself.
On March 9, 2014, Peggy will run from Dodgers Stadium to the Santa Monica Pier with a picture of Muia pinned to her. Each step of training and each step taken that day will be a tribute to Muia and his family.
How You Can Help
Neither Peggy and I are comfortable asking for money. When the kids have school fundraisers, we typically end up with a lot of overpriced, useless items. But I believe this is different. After my initial post about Muia, many of you wanted to know how you could help. I believe this is an opportunity to tell this family that strangers from across the world love and care for their well-being.
Our goal is to raise $8,500, and we hope to do this by having people sponsor each mile of Peggy's run. If you're willing, we ask for a donation of $26 toward this fund. In the end, we wish to be able to tell Muia that 327 people came together and purchased them this land and home.
If you're interested, click here for more information and/or to donate: http://grouprev.com/milesformuia
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