Watoto Australia

Watoto Australia Watoto brings hope and healing to vulnerable women in Uganda and South Sudan.

https://www.watoto.com/home-gift-of-love/
https://www.watoto.com/get-involved/partner/ We raise funds to support the holistic care of vulnerable women and children in Uganda & South Sudan

15/01/2025

If you’re scrolling through your feed right now, pause. Just five minutes is all it takes to watch Hazel’s powerful story — a story of obedience, courage, commitment and how one small act of kindness led to an unbreakable bond between two people who live 12,000 kms apart.

Please, don’t miss the ending. Hazel’s words carry a truth we all need to hear.

For more information on how you can start your journey with Watoto visit watoto.com
Video credits: Cierwen Newell and Enzo Maisano .global

14/01/2025

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:
The Watoto Children’s Choir is coming back to Australia and we can't wait! From July to November this year, you can experience the joy, the hope, and the incredible talent of these children and young adults as they share their music and stories of transformation.
Stay updated on 2025 tour dates and details by following Watoto Australia on Instagram and Facebook.

25/12/2024

Merry Christmas everyone from the Watoto Children's Choir.

24/12/2024

Raymond was born on Christmas Day, a time when people around the world gather with friends and family to celebrate the birth of Jesus. But tragically instead of being embraced in his mother’s arms and feeling the love and joy of the season, Raymond was placed in a plastic bag and tossed in a garbage pit behind the hospital—on Christmas Day. He was lost and alone until he was rescued by the love of Jesus. Today, Raymond is sharing his story of hope.

Watoto means a lot of things to a lot of people. Watoto is a safe place to call home to over 3,000 future leaders. Each ...
24/12/2024

Watoto means a lot of things to a lot of people. Watoto is a safe place to call home to over 3,000 future leaders. Each child is receiving an education, medical care, food and the love of Jesus. We're also rescuing babies and giving them a fresh start in life. We're empowering women in our neighbourhoods with job training and discipleship. We're helping girls to stay in school through our Keep a Girl in School program simply by providing sanitary pads, helping with school fees and sharing the gospel to the girls and boys in the community. Not to mention our Watoto Children's Choir who travels the world sharing the love of Jesus, our Sports Academy, Worship Academy, Hope Vocational and Technical Institute... well the list goes on and on.

We want to express our gratitude and share some encouragement with you today. Because of your love, support, and prayers, we're seeing Jesus change lives here in Africa and around the world.

We're praying for you as well — that you know the peace and joy found in Jesus this holiday season.

From all of us at Watoto, Merry Christmas!

23/12/2024

Merry Christmas from our family to yours.

The first time I saw George, he was so fragile. Abandoned as an infant, George was only a few weeks old when he arrived ...
21/12/2024

The first time I saw George, he was so fragile. Abandoned as an infant, George was only a few weeks old when he arrived at Baby Watoto. He was immediately placed in an incubator. I remember looking down at the deep furrow across his brow, like he carried the weight of something far too heavy for a newborn. A little old man in a baby’s body. But over time, something else about George tugged at me: One of his legs was shorter than the other, slightly twisted. I decided then and there he would walk. So, I prayed for God to do the necessary physio and George would be healed. A year passed, and then during one of my visits, a nanny ran over to me, nearly breathless. “You’ll want to see George,” she said. And there he was. George—standing. His legs were straight. It was a miracle! When it came time for him to graduate to one of the Watoto homes, I raised my hand to sponsor him. Over the years, a beautiful bond grew. Each time I visited Suubi Village, George greeted me with a big grin and outstretched arms. He always remembered the little song I taught him back at Baby Watoto — Round and round the garden, like a teddy bear. With every visit, our connection deepened. I read him bedtime stories, sat in his classroom, and filled photo albums with pictures of our time together. George grew, of course, as all children do. I always knew he’d be tall—there was something in the length of his limbs, even as a boy. But I wasn’t prepared for just how tall. On my last visit, I stood in church, lost in thought, when I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned around and looked up—way up. It was George. Sixteen now, with broad shoulders and an easy confidence. George is now the captain of his school basketball team, a leader among his peers. But to me, he’s still the baby in the incubator—the one with the old man’s frown and a fierce determination to beat all the odds.

Gloria, Australia

If you would like to be part a child's miracle story this Christmas, visit Watoto.com or click the link in our bio.

19/12/2024

Hear from Watoto's leaders, Pastor Julius and Vernita, as they share an inspiring message of Hope, along with some of the amazing highlights of what Jesus is doing through your love and support of Watoto.

Sydney is proof that the love of Jesus saves lives. Abandoned as a baby, Sydney was alone and vulnerable and needed our ...
13/12/2024

Sydney is proof that the love of Jesus saves lives. Abandoned as a baby, Sydney was alone and vulnerable and needed our help. Someone just like you gave to Watoto, making it possible for us to welcome her with food, medical care, and a safe place to call home.

This Christmas, we’re asking you to help us make room for more children just like Sydney who need our help. Donate at WATOTO.com (link in bio) to gift the Gift of Love.

Meet Doreen, a single mother of three children who felt alone—and worried not about “tomorrow,” but about “today.” Unabl...
02/12/2024

Meet Doreen, a single mother of three children who felt alone—and worried not about “tomorrow,” but about “today.” Unable to feed and care for her children, depression and stress hung over Doreen, reminding her of the problems in her life.

But one seemingly ordinary moment turned extraordinary. Through her local church, Doreen joined a small group of women. What began as tentative steps into a community soon became a lifeline. It was here that she first heard of Watoto Neighbourhood, a program empowering women with stories not unlike her own.

The connections she made were transformative. Among this group, Doreen found camaraderie and a sense of belonging she hadn’t felt in years. For the first time in a long time, she began to hope—tentatively at first, but steadily.

Watoto Neighbourhood provided more than emotional support. It offered Doreen the tools to rebuild her life. She enrolled in training programs that taught her essential skills and, more importantly, grounded her sense of worth in faith. The love of Jesus, she says, helped her rediscover her value and purpose.

Today, Doreen is not merely surviving—she is thriving. As the proud owner of a hair salon, she not only provides for her children but also serves as an inspiration to her community. Her journey from despair to self-sufficiency is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the right support system.

In her words, “I now know my worth. And I know that I am not alone.”

In 2008, a group of spirited women from Brisbane, affectionately known as the "Pink Ladies," embarked on a journey to Ug...
27/11/2024

In 2008, a group of spirited women from Brisbane, affectionately known as the "Pink Ladies," embarked on a journey to Uganda that would leave an indelible mark. Their nickname was inspired by their matching pink polo shirts, each embroidered with care, reflecting their shared passion: sewing.

“There were 19 of us, bonded by the art of needle and thread. In a burst of ambition—and, perhaps, a touch of naivety—we carried 10 electric sewing machines and 2 overlockers halfway across the world. It seemed crazy, but we were determined. The machines found a new home in the Watoto Neighbourhood Program — a space where women could learn skills to rebuild their lives. But the real heart of our visit wasn’t just the sewing — it was the connection. One sweltering afternoon, we ventured to a community centre to pamper some of the women. In Australia, a pedicure or a back massage can be easily taken for granted. But here, amongst women who had endured the unthinkable during years of conflict, such gestures were revolutionary. Many had suffered atrocities at the hands of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) — their bodies bearing the physical and emotional scars of violence. I found myself massaging feet, while my friend Gloria, offered back massages. One woman, her frame stooped with years of hardship, leaned back into Gloria's hands and whispered, 'This is the first time I have been touched with loving hands.' The weight of her words hung in the air, as profound as it was heartbreaking. That day, we realized the true power of human connection—a touch, a smile, a moment of kindness. A few years back, I returned to the same neighbourhood centre. Time had weathered parts of Uganda, much like the women we once pampered. Yet, as I spoke to some of the now-grey-haired ladies, their faces lit up with recognition. "Do you remember the Pink Ladies?" I asked. Their eyes widened, and with a smile stretching across their faces, they exclaimed, "Ooooh, yes!" Even after all these years, the memory of that fleeting moment of care remains vivid—a testament to the enduring impact of compassion and the courage to carry sewing machines halfway across the world.”
Hazel Overfield.

Keziah was a little girl when she came to Watoto with her mother. “It was the best moment of my life,” said Keziah. "You...
20/11/2024

Keziah was a little girl when she came to Watoto with her mother. “It was the best moment of my life,” said Keziah. "You get medical care, food on the table, education, and an opportunity to grow spiritually."

Thankful for everything Jesus has done in her life, Keziah is passionate about worship and spends a lot of her free time tutoring her younger brothers and sisters at Watoto’s Worship Academy.

“It is a privilege to teach the younger ones so they can grow and become future leaders in music. The Worship Academy opens your life and exposure to music, whilst helping develop good relationships with other musicians. It’s given me a bigger picture and allowed me to grow spiritually with God — knowing I can worship and serve at the same time.

At Baby Watoto, we rescue and care for some of Uganda’s most vulnerable babies—little ones like Baby Miracle. From urgen...
18/11/2024

At Baby Watoto, we rescue and care for some of Uganda’s most vulnerable babies—little ones like Baby Miracle. From urgent medical treatment to cuddles, clean diapers, and nutritious food, we ensure every baby receives the specialized care they need from our own team of experienced nannies. Nannies who shower these babies with the love of Jesus.

As Christmas approaches, you can help us continue rescuing vulnerable children. Learn how you can make a difference through our Gift of Love Appeal. Click the link in our bio.

Meet Vivian, a sweet girl growing up in Watoto on our Bbira village where she is being raised and nurtured by Mama Macul...
15/11/2024

Meet Vivian, a sweet girl growing up in Watoto on our Bbira village where she is being raised and nurtured by Mama Maculate.

This is what makes Watoto special —we are a family! Children like Vivian are welcomed home here and embraced by a mother who showers them with the love of Jesus.

Jethro and Emilly were both rescued as babies and given the love and care every little one deserves. Although they had a...
13/11/2024

Jethro and Emilly were both rescued as babies and given the love and care every little one deserves. Although they had a tough start in life, last year they were among the 92 children and toddlers who were transitioned from Baby Watoto into a family on one of our Watoto Villages.

These two precious children are living proof of the transformative love of Jesus. Once forgotten and without hope, today Jethro and Emilly are thriving in school and in life with their big sister, Favour and their Watoto family.

We'd love to continue rescuing vulnerable children like Jethro and Emilly — but to do this, we need your help! Check out your in-box tomorrow morning to find out how (for those not already on our mailing list click the link in our bio).

11/11/2024

Fred is a living miracle! In 2013, Watoto rescued Fred and provided emergency, life-saving care — all made possible by our amazing sponsors and partners. Over the past decade, because of our faithful supporters, we have been able to give Fred a childhood filled with love, safety and hope for the future.

To everyone who sponsors, supports and loves Watoto — you're making a huge difference in the lives of kids like Fred.

Thank you!

After sharing their message of hope with over 18,000 people in Victoria, NSW and Queensland, the Watoto Children's Choir...
01/11/2024

After sharing their message of hope with over 18,000 people in Victoria, NSW and Queensland, the Watoto Children's Choir are now on their way back to Uganda! 🇺🇬 A heartfelt "Thank You, Australia!" for welcoming us into your churches, schools, businesses, communities and homes with open arms and open hearts.
We will never forget you!

Stay updated on upcoming tour dates and details by following us on Instagram and Facebook Watoto Australia

Queensland ... don't miss your last chance to experience the Watoto Children's Choir live before they head back to Ugand...
26/10/2024

Queensland ... don't miss your last chance to experience the Watoto Children's Choir live before they head back to Uganda. Join us for our final Australian performance of 2024!

It promises to be an unforgettable evening.

Address

PO BOX 799
Melbourne, VIC
3207

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+61396456547

Website

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James was rescued as a baby. Before he had a sponsor, Watoto welcomed James home with food, clothes, medical care, and a warm bed of his own – all because someone like you gave to Watoto. This Christmas, you can help us save a child's life – a child like James. Donate at Watoto.com (link in bio).

Hear from Watoto's leaders, Pastor Julius and Vernita, as they share an inspiring message of Hope, along with some of the amazing highlights of what Jesus is doing through your love and support of Watoto.

✨ This Christmas, give the Gift of Love. ✨ For as little as $43—less than many Secret Santa gifts—you can help provide a vulnerable child with a safe home, nourishing food, an education, and the everlasting hope found in Jesus. You can donate at Watoto.com (link in bio).

What if we told you that your gift of love today could change the life of a child tomorrow. To find out more, visit Watoto.com (link in bio).

What if we told you that you could give a gift today that would save a child's life tomorrow. Interested? To find out more, visit Watoto.com (link in bio)

Join Australian Obstetrician Dr. Natalie Elphinstone as she shares her inspiring story with us. Don't miss Episodes 2,3 and 4 premiering in 2025.

Join Australian Obstetrican Dr. Natalie Elphinstone as she shares her inspiring story with us. Don't miss Episodes 2,3 and 4 premiering in 2025.

Join Australian Obstetrician Dr. Natalie Elphinstone as she shares her inspiring story with us. Don't miss Episodes 2,3 and 4 premiering in 2025.

Before Sydney had a sponsor, she needed Watoto’s help. We were there for her when she needed us most because someone just like you gave. This made it possible for us to embrace Sydney with love and give her food, clothes, medical care, and a safe place to call home. Today we’re asking you to help another child like Sydney. Give the Gift of Love at WATOTO.com (link in bio)

Meet one of our Watoto families in Uganda. Thank you for loving and supporting our mothers and children. We couldn't do this without you!

Through Watoto Neighbourhood we embrace vulnerable women, like Juliet, with the love of Jesus, providing them with adult literacy classes, discipleship, business training, vocational skills, job opportunities—and hope. “I am a person who once felt worthless," Juliet shared with us. "Now I feel loved, at peace and empowered to raise my children." This profound change is made possible because of generous people like you. Thank you for helping us embrace these women with God’s love, so they find hope and a purpose.

Watoto is raising Africa's future leaders — educating and empowering children to walk in the purpose and calling God has for their lives. Whether they dream of healing lives as doctor, advocating for justice as a laywer, inspiring minds as teacher, or leading hearts in worship — every Watoto child is equipped to succeed in life, then carry that hope into the world. It's more than just education, it's a foundation for transformation.

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Watoto is a family of people across the globe who are working together alongside the most vulnerable in Uganda to assist individuals to become leaders in their life so they, in turn, will rebuild the nation.