Greetings Africa Uplifted Family and Friends!
This past year has been, well, you all know what it’s been like. Here’s what 2020 looked like from Africa Uplifted’s perspective.
In February, we were able to send a team to Sierra Leone. Board member Randy Oelschlager led a team of 6 members who helped with medical outreach, installation of a water filtration system and a children’s photo book project at the school.
After that though, our March, May and September trips to Sierra Leone were cancelled as was our May fundraising gala. In lieu of the gala, however, we were able to conduct a mail campaign which resulted in net contributions that were comparable to prior years.
Thanks to your generosity, our major programs continued through the pandemic. Schools in Sierra Leone were closed in the spring but reopened this fall. Our support for the Manonkoh primary and preschool continues along with school lunch which is served every day.
Our support of the Doris Acton Community Health Center in Manonkoh has also continued. This medical facility was able to stay open through the pandemic largely as a result of facilities and training put in place during the 2015-2016 Ebola epidemic in Sierra Leone.
We were also able to start a new project at the recently renovated clinic in Yonibana, Sierra Leone. A Chief Health Officer (CHO) has been hired and additional staff will be added soon.
Finally, we would like to remember several friends who we have lost this year. Florence Kamara was a teacher at the Manonkoh school. Ed Kamara (no relation) was a long-time associate and early supporter. Bishop John Yambasu was a friend and advocate. Karen Bahl was a loving supporter. And, Judy Kersten was a veteran team member and educational promoter. We miss them all dearly.
Yet, Africa Uplifted stands ready to continue our work and, with your support, will accomplish our mission to enrich the lives of the people of Sierra Leone. Thank you again!
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a better 2021!
Julie and Lance Burma
Co-Founders
www.AfricaUplifted.org
AfricaUplifted@gmail.com