SAFE SUNNY FUN FOR ALL

Chalice works with two unique schools in our Kawambwa site in northern Zambia. Both St. Mary’s and St. Odilia’s offer boarding school education for children with visual impairment. 

Between the two schools, 115 children have albinism. They were born with little or no melanin pigment in their skin, eyes, or hair.

Our melanin gives us a little bit of natural protection from the sun’s UV rays. Without it, the children with albinism are very prone to burning – and worse. The Sisters of the Child Jesus, who run both schools and the Kawambwa site, must constantly balance the children’s yearning to romp outside and their long-term skin health.

"In Zambia, the sun is strong throughout the year,” says Sr. Agnes, Kawambwa site director, “and our children are just like all children-- they love to play.”

"We stress to the children that when spending time outdoors, they must remember to protect their beautiful, delicate skin.”   

The school staff try to slather on the broad-spectrum sunscreen as generously as they can and re-apply it as often as quantities allow. 

“Regular use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF helps to prevent sunburn, and skin damage, and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer,” Sr. Agnes says. "Sunscreen still remains the most useful for skin protection at the two schools.”

“However, it comes at a very huge cost.” Sunscreen is very expensive. Most locals don’t use it, so it's a luxury product, often imported.

"The children will be free from sunburns and will be comfortable being in the sun and playing,” says Sr. Agnes. "Children will not suffer from skin damage.”

“Thank you and God bless your generosity--from all of us!”