Kenya: Cher Gives Cash Boost To Orphanage

A new orphanage for children whose parents died from Aids has opened in Kenya this week, thanks to the singer Cher.

The Togetherness School in Ukunda is now home to 360 children aged between two and 14 years. Many of them have HIV themselves.

It was originally the dream of a Scottish couple who went to Kenya on holiday. Moved by the plight of the children, Robert and Eleanor Wood, from Fife, set up a small orphanage on rented land.

Four years ago, after spending their life savings and with the orphanage in danger of shutting down, they appealed on Sky News for help.

The American singer Cher was watching the channel in a hotel room in Germany and immediately pledged crucial funds.

The actor Clint Eastwood also offered financial assistance.

Robert Wood said: "We were renting the land but the owners were threatening to chuck us off. About five miles up the road we discovered five acres of green, lush land with coconut trees and even a fresh water well."

"Because of Cher we were able to build a brand new school there and the kids love it."

Sadly, Robert and his wife were not able to go to Kenya for the opening.

"We sat at home and thought about them all and we cried. Many of the little ones call us Pappa Roberto and Mamma Elenora. They think of us as family.

"This school makes a real difference to their lives."

Jackson M`buti Gitonga, the school`s administrator, said: "It was a proud day. But it was also sad as we were missing our Scottish founders. We owe everything to Robert and Eleanor. And, of course, Cher."

Monthly payments from Cher and Eastwood mean the children are clothed, fed and educated.

If the school did not exist the children would have to fend for themselves.

sections: Celebrities