WHAT’S NEXT
In Sierra Leone, we hope to extend into secondary schools dropout and early marriage spike and to reach vulnerable boys living with disabilities.
We also hope to expand to areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo labor is especially prevalent, and Nigeria, where we have worked for many years.
You are changing lives through the undeniable power of education. And we are just getting started. Thank you for rising to the challenge. WHO WILL YOUR LOVE REACH NEXT?
FINALLY FREE TO GO TO SCHOOL
Growing up in Sierra Leone, Aminata Kamara faced unfathomable trauma. Forced to marry her abuser, she left school at only 12 years old, giving birth to her daughter Kadiatu that same year. She dreamed of giving her daughter an education and a brighter future than the one she faced.
I want Kadiatu to learn so that after she finishes school, she can find a future.” — Aminata Kamara
With the help of monthly cash transfers, Aminata has not only been able to ensure Kadiatu — now 12 herself — stays in school, but she’s also attending right alongside her.
The road ahead is still filled with challenges. But today they are a success story in progress — and your generosity is helping them write it WATCH THEIR STORY HERE.
God has blessed us to be a blessing. Educating girls in Sierra Leone is one powerful way our congregation responds to that call."
— Pastor Rob Henderson
Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, took on a Lenten challenge to educate girls — and by Easter, had supported 77 girls. (That’s more than $26,000!) Children from the church measured the congregation’s progress with apples! Read this story and more at lwr.org/congregations.
Aminata and her daughter Kadiatu have hope in their future now that they are both in school.
Senior Education Advisor Hannah Graham shares how girls in Sierra Leone are making remarkable strides.
PARTNERING FOR SUCCESS
Just as the power of your love is multiplied when joined with other congregations, we can better reach girls through partnerships. While cash assistance helps girls stay in school, complex challenges often require more personalized care. Together with our local partners, girls can reach their full potential both in and out of the classroom
Some of these kids have never had people who showed them that they’re loved and cared for. Through this program ... someone cares.”
– Conrad Sackey, Minister of Education
A strong advocate for the most vulnerable, the minister supports policies that ensure everyone has a chance to learn.
“They see me as a sister, someone they can confide in. I know what it feels like having someone who’s like a mentor to you and who gives you confidence that you can become someone tomorrow.”
– Mary Kamara, LWR Field Officer
Mary is a changemaker, earning her master's degree despite growing up in extreme poverty.
“We do not only focus on girls, we also talk to the boys because they’re there to also listen and know how to treat a woman."
– Jemilatu Koroma, Human Rights Officer
Human Rights Commission Sierra Leone educates citizens about their rights and coordinates with Rainbo Initiative to address and refer cases of abuse.
We follow up not only on their health, but also to make sure that we integrate them back in their society ... If we are not supporting them at home, it will be very, very difficult for them to come out of the abuse.”
– Bob Lamin, Communications & Advocacy Manager
Rainbo Initiative provides free medical services and psychosocial services for survivors of violence and abuse.
Congregations like yours make this and other transformative work possible. THANK YOU!
Until your love reaches every neighbor.
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION SIERRA LEONE
RAINBO INITIATIVE
SIERRA LEONE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
LWR IN SIERRA LEONE