About Us
Our Story
Project Lots of LOVE was founded in 2021 out of personal relationships with the children and caregivers of Chakuwama in Dar es Salaam. What began with a family-and-friends fundraiser to renovate a pre-primary school quickly grew into a nonprofit dedicated to providing orphans beyond their basic needs.
Too often, services such as quality education, consistent healthcare, and emotional support are not offered or prioritized for orphans. People often forget that when a child loses their parents, they also lose their support system. They lose someone to advocate for them, guide them, and believe in their potential. Project Lots of LOVE exists to help fill that gap.
Our Approach
We believe lasting change is built on dignity, partnership, and cultural understanding. At the heart of our work is the time we take to truly know each child as an individual. We listen to their stories, learn their needs, and support their dreams.
By building genuine relationships, we provide care that responds not only to shared challenges but also to the unique wants and needs of every child we serve. From healthcare access to education to major construction projects, our goal is always the same: to create safe and supportive environments where children can thrive.
Our Vision
We envision a future where our children in Dar es Salaam have the stability, care, and opportunities they need. This future is built through strong foundations today and real opportunities for education, health, and growth tomorrow.
A Note From the Founder
When I first traveled to Tanzania in 2018, I thought I was giving myself a new life experience before returning to school for seven more years. Instead, I found something much deeper: a lifelong connection with the children and caregivers of Chakuwama. Seven years and (soon to be) three degrees later, I am grateful every day for how this journey has shaped both my life and the mission of Project Lots of LOVE Project Lots of LOVE began with the simple desire to do more. In the beginning, I had little more to contribute than my heart and vision, but that was enough to spark something lasting. Over time, I have been humbled by the opportunities to bring this vision to life and grateful for the support that has made it possible. My studies in psychology, philosophy, law, and international public service have shaped the foundation of this work and expanded the scope of what we can achieve together.
In 2025, I began advocating for policy reforms to make health insurance more affordable for children in orphanages nationwide. This work was inspired by my courses in international human rights and international geopolitics, which showed me how policy can shape access to basic needs. It has been incredible to see how my education can translate into real-world change for children who need it most, and I know this is only the beginning.
I am endlessly thankful to everyone who has supported Project Lots of LOVE and to those who will join us in the future. This journey has been filled with Laughter, Hope, Optimism, and Energy (LOVE), and I believe it is only the beginning of what we will accomplish.
Lots of LOVE,
Tess
About the Chakuwama Orphanage
The Chakuwama Orphanage was founded in 1998 by Bibi, whose compassion and vision created a safe home for children without families in Dar es Salaam. Over the years, Chakuwama has cared for hundreds of children, at times housing as many as 110. After Bibi’s passing in 2018, her son, Hassan Hamisi Thabu, stepped into her role and now serves as director and primary caregiver, continuing his mother’s legacy with deep dedication and love.
Today, Chakuwama cares for 99 children ranging in age from 1 to 23. The main center in Sinza Mori is home to 77 children, while a second center in Mbezi Msakuzi provides for 22 more. Both locations offer stability, care, and community for children who would otherwise go without.
Chakuwama has been Project Lots of LOVE’s primary partner since our founding. Our journey began with them, and their staff has supported us every step of the way, connecting us to resources and helping expand the scope of our work. Our biggest project to date, the construction of a new center in Kigamboni known as Chakuwama Mpya, is being carried out in close partnership with the leadership at Chakuwama. The children will remain under the primary care of the Chakuwama staff, while Project Lots of LOVE contributes to the design and function of the new center. Together, we are working to create a modern, sustainable home that continues Bibi’s vision and strengthens the future of every child.
