German Philanthropist and Team Provide Humanitarian Aid to Disabled Community in Freetown
In a heartwarming display of generosity and care, Dr. Elizabeth Barbara Klett, a 92-year-old German philanthropist, has spearheaded a two-week program at the St. Mary’s Fatima Interim Care Center in the No. Two River Community, dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities in Freetown. The initiative, which commenced on March 7th, 2024, encompasses two crucial phases: one devoted to caring for individuals with Autism, and the other to providing essential medical support to persons with disabilities (PWDs). Accompanied by four dedicated colleagues from Germany, Dr. Klett orchestrated a comprehensive effort to address the diverse needs of Freetown’s disabled population. Among the team members was Larissa Jemma Kendler, an expert in Autism care, who devoted her time to engaging individuals with Autism through activities like drawing, games, and motivational sessions. Heinz-Christoph Hemme, a German Military Doctor and Dentist, explained that his mission involved assessing the dental health and hygiene of the beneficiaries. Recognizing the significance of dental care, Dr. Hemme emphasized the importance of education on dental hygiene and highlighted the potential health risks associated with untreated dental issues, such as heart and lung diseases. Leilah Patzak and Iris Mittelhammer, both military doctors from Germany, played pivotal roles in providing essential healthcare services to the beneficiaries. Leilah underscored the community’s enthusiasm for the services offered, which many viewed as viable alternatives to traditional healthcare facilities. She emphasized the team’s commitment to referring patients to clinics when necessary, recognizing the limitations of their onsite services. In addition to the remarkable efforts of Dr. Elizabeth Barbara Klett and her team, it’s worth noting that over 100 individuals have directly benefited from the medical services provided during the two-week program. This substantial outreach underscores the program’s significant impact on the disabled community in Freetown. The beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude for the support extended to them during the program. Dr. Klett’s benevolence extended beyond medical assistance, as beneficiaries also received tokens to aid in sustaining their livelihoods. The impact of Dr. Elizabeth Barbara Klett’s initiative transcends borders, underscoring the profound difference that compassionate intervention can make in the lives of vulnerable communities. As the program draws to a close, its legacy of compassion serves as a beacon of hope for individuals with disabilities in Freetown.
Hungary Helps Continues its Sustainable Feeding Program for School Kids in No. 2 River Community
Hungary Helps, in collaboration with Caritas Freetown, has continued its sustainable feeding program at the Kiera Chaplin Desert Flower School in Number 2 River, Western Rural District, Sierra Leone. The project, titled “Sustainable School-Based Feeding of School-going Pupils,” aims to enhance the nutrition, health, and academic performance of students through regular and nutritious meals. The project’s core objectives include promoting access to nutritious meals, improving student health and well-being, and enhancing academic performance. Emphasizing local sourcing and sustainable farming practices, the initiative aims to address both short-term needs and long-term resilience against climate change impacts. Now in its third week, the program benefits 400 school-aged children, providing them with access to nutritious meals. Joseph Sesay, a class six pupil, expressed gratitude, stating, “I want to express my sincere thanks to Hungary Helps because some of us don’t bring enough lunch to school since my parents are not financially strong.” He emphasized the importance of continuing the feeding program for their education. Elizabeth Koya Alie, Head of the Nursery Department at Kiera Chaplin Desert Flower School, expressed joy at the initiative, acknowledging the vulnerability of many students who often attend school without food. She hopes that the program will extend beyond the Lenten season, providing sustained support to the students. As the feeding program continues to make a positive impact on the lives of students, Hungary Helps and its partners are committed to ensuring the sustainability and success of the initiative. Through community engagement and support, they aim to create lasting benefits for the students of Kiera Chaplin Desert Flower School and beyond.
Caritas Freetown and Civil Peace Service (C. P. S) Commemorates International Women’s Day with Empowering Event in Western Area Rural District
In commemoration of the ongoing one-month International Women’s Day celebrations, Caritas Freetown, supported by C.P.S, organized a one-day event on Thursday, March 14th, 2024, at Masantigie Community, Western Area Rural. The event, attended by 30 participants from Masantigie and Matainkay communities, aimed to celebrate and recognize the pivotal role women play in society while promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. Stakeholders from various sectors, including representatives from the Sierra Leone Police-Family Support Unit, Ministry of Gender and Children Affairs, Desert Flower Africa, Women’s Advocacy and Agricultural Development Organization (WADO), C.P.S, and Caritas Freetown, gathered to emphasize the importance of women’s participation in decision-making and advocate for their rights. During the event, statements were delivered by stakeholders, highlighting the significant contributions of women to society and stressing the need for their equal treatment and respect. Andrew Kponeh, the event facilitator, underscored the importance of women’s participation in society, noting the progress made in areas such as politics and decision-making, thanks to legislations like the Gender Empowerment and Development Act of 2022. He encouraged both women and men to work towards gender equality and support women’s empowerment initiatives. Tobias Max Grosse, representing C.P.S, emphasized the ongoing gender inequalities and the collective responsibility to address them. He urged attendees to familiarize themselves with key provisions of relevant legislation, engage in discussions, and advocate for women’s rights. Sallaymatu Koroma, from the Sierra Leone Police-Family Support Unit, encouraged women to speak up against issues of gender-based violence (SGBV) and empower themselves to seize opportunities available to them. Madam Doris Fatima Webber, Director of WADO, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that empowering women adds value not only to households but also to communities and the nation at large. She called attention to legislation like the Gender Empowerment and Development Act of 2022, which promotes women’s increased participation in politics and decision-making. In conclusion, the event served as a platform to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness about ongoing gender inequalities, and promote collective action towards gender equality and women’s empowerment in the country. Through collaboration and advocacy, stakeholders aim to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.