On December 29, 2022, Impact Sierra Leone (ISL) held its 2ndannual Christmas Day of Hope with the Foindu Village community in rural Sierra Leone. The main beneficiaries were the 250 school children in Foindu Village and their families. The day was full of excitement, empowerment, and entertainment! It was an unforgettable day for the entire community! The program included several activities; cultural dancing, a spelling bee contest, delicious food for all guests, distribution of school bags for each child and finally, a presentation of the My Body Is My Body (MBIMB) workshop in partnership with Global Goodwill Ambassadors Foundation (GGAF). The children were so happy to receive the MBIMB handouts and promised they will be reviewing with their parents. This is the first time ever they have received such Child safety information and it is very much needed in the village. The children were super excited to sing the MBIMB songs and there were smiles all around. The MBIMB Child Safety information is a good fit for our Seeds of Life Healthy Futures Initiative. ISL will partner with other neighboring schools to bring the MBIMB workshop.
The Christmas Day of Hope began with opening prayers and remarks, followed by an introduction of all ISL team members. Students performed cultural dances to traditional music as well as local women dancers. ISL Founder Dr. Adama Kalokoh was so excited to perform with the children. Additionally, we conducted a Spelling Bee Contest where several age groups showed their spelling skills. Over 400 people were in attendance which included students, parents, Foindu community leaders, and residents. The program concluded with the distribution of backpacks to every single student and the pinata filled with candy for all to enjoy. Followed by remarks by community leaders, including representatives from Foindu’s Women’s and Youth groups. We also recognized all the teachers for their tireless efforts as well as all our ISL farmers, for providing free clothing and shoes.
Overall, the Christmas Day of Hope was a success! We are thankful for all our supporters who helped to make this day possible. We are especially thankful for all the hard work, enthusiasm and commitment displayed by Impact Sierra Leone staff, Foindu Village students and staff and the Foindu Community. We look forward to the next activities, strengthening our partnership with the Foindu Community and bringing more opportunities to improve the lives of this community. You can be a part of this effort by visiting www.impactsierraleone where you can also donate and learn more about this, and other Impact Sierra Leone programs. ISL is a proud supporter of the sustainability goals of Zero Hunger, No Poverty, Gender Equality and Good Health & Well Being and their potential to impact communities for their best future. United We Stand and Together We Rise.
