Hello Echoers!
This past Giving Season of 2017 was one of our most successful yet. We have been so encouraged by all the support. What's next? Women in Action still has to make up rent payments that were due in January for the continued operation of their school. With the donations we sent at the end of 2017, Esther still needs about 3000 dollars to pay for last year's rent. While loans are an option to keep the school open, the costs on these loans is very high and we want to help prevent the school from slipping into debt. So here is my challenge. We are asking both new and current donors to consider a $30 donation. Just 30 dollars! What does that do? Let me tell you...
Women in Action has a student population of approximately 250 young women and children. Students receive both vocational and academic skills training ranging from computer skills, language comprehension, and mathematics to hair braiding, tailoring, batik art, and catering. The school has also added a daycare centre to allow parents with young children to attend the school. Students who have graduated remain a part of the school through the "Old Girl's Club" - an alumni association which Esther remains in contact with to monitor their success. Many of these women have gone on to start their own catering businesses, find employment with local organizations, or even start internet cafes.
Esther with students on graduation day at Women in Action
Education has been shown to be one of the most effective ways of combating poverty, especially providing education opportunities to young women and girls. Furthermore, we are working with Esther Kanu, our local partner who founded Women in Action. This is not an international project that stops when priorities change or international staff go home. Through flooding, disease, and war Esther as operated her school and we believe in her leadership and intimate knowledge of the local community.
Esther visiting rural communities outside of Freetown to talk about Women in Action
So let's get that rent cost covered so Esther can focus on the important task of providing opportunities and choices to her community in one of the most difficult places in the world to live!
-Matthew