Terror Threat Forces Mass. Woman To Leave Kenyan Orphanage
BOSTON (CBS) – Virginia Burbank is a retired Cohasset English teacher, turned missionary.
For the past 10 years the 76-year-old has been running an orphanage in Kenya called Oasis of Peace.
"Oasis Of Peace is a place in the desert of loneliness, famine and disappointment," Burbank said.
However, in this desert of despair are 27 beautiful orphans 4-18 year old.
The orphanage only take kids who parents have died of AIDS.
"I teach the children the bible. I tell them stories and teach them to read," Burbank said.
Now Burbank can no longer be a part of the orphanage she says God told her to build because the immigration department forced her to leave last year.
Burbank says a very dangerous Jihadist terrorist group called Al Shabaab could hunt her down and harm the children as well.
"I was kicked out of Kenya and I love these children," Burbank said. "The problem is they wanted me to get out because I would attract them because I am American."
Even if she were allowed to return, Burbank knows she can't.
"I want to go back right now! Right this minute, but I don't want to put those kids in danger," Burbank said.
These days Burbank spends most of time praying for the children's safety, her staff and the survival of the orphanage, which is in desperate need of support.
"Right now there's no money for next month to feed the children. If anyone is listening this is the most worthy cause," Burbank said.
For more information, visit the Oasis of Peace website.
