To help girls stay In School, our program offers a combination of cash assistance and wraparound services that girls need to succeed.
While cash assistance is highly effective at helping girls stay in school, these children often face complex challenges that require more personalized care. That’s why your generosity also provides additional support services that can include:
- Health care
- Disability services
- Counseling
- Other critical services.
To make these services available — and ensure our programs align with government priorities and practices — we rely on trusted local partners.
Meet a few of these partners in Sierra Leone who walk beside the girls every step of the way.
Rainbo Initiative
Rainbo Initiative is a local NGO that provides free medical and psychosocial treatment for survivors of violence and abuse. (Fun fact: They leave off the ‘w’ to signify their work is not yet done.)
"We follow up not only on their health, but also to make sure that we integrate them back in their society. We can support them at our center, but 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 and advocacy manager
Human Rights Commission SL
Human Rights Commission SL educates citizens about their rights and coordinates with Rainbo Initiative to address and refer cases of abuse.
“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 or know how to treat their colleagues.” – Jemilatu Koroma, human rights officer
Mary Kamara
Mary Kamara, a field officer for In School, is a role model and champion for the girls. As a child, Mary went to school hungry and with holes in her shoes. She went on to earn a master’s degree and now dedicates her days to encouraging the girls the way others encouraged her.
“They see me as a sister, someone they can confide in ... I know what it feels like coming from a humble background. I know what it feels like having someone who is like a mentor to you ... who gives you confidence that you can become someone tomorrow.” – Mary Kamara, field officer
Conrad Sackey
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Education, Conrad Sackey, is a strong advocate for programs and policies that support the most vulnerable students — from the poorest to those with disabilities to girls who are pregnant — to ensure everyone has a chance to learn.
“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