Back to School Challenge

It's that time of year again. As I was grocery shopping I passed the school supply isle that shows up every year at this time. An array of pencils, pens, paper, folders, lunch boxes, and backpacks. Soon we will begin to see advertisements for "Back to School" clothes. I never really got the concept of "Back to School" clothes. I'm not really sure how new clothes are supposed to impact my child's education? Anywho, I won't go on a tangent. There are millions of children around the world who would love to have just ONE pencil so they can learn to write the alphabet. "Back to School" clothes are not even on their radar.

So my challenge to you this school year is stick to the basics. I am sure now and then a new pair of jeans are necessary but a whole "Back to School" wardrobe?? What if we took the extra money we would spend on unnecessary items and made sure that the children in Ziway, Ethiopia have basic school supplies.

Check out what Lifesong for Orphans is doing to help the children of Ziway, Ethiopia prepare for a new school year.

The school situation in the town of Ziway, Ethiopia is very inadequate. Many children simply do not have the opportunity to attend school at any level or in any facility. The government schools are overcrowded with up to 75 students per classroom. Private schools tend to be somewhat better, but usually have 40-50 students per class. Whether private or public, the schools are lacking in even the basics. Students must share textbooks and cannot take their textbooks home. Even standard items such as chalk and pencils are in short supply and must be severely rationed.

The caregivers and children recognize the value of a good education. They know that education is critical to their obtaining good employment and providing for themselves and their families. Therefore, it is a priority to Lifesong for Orphans to construct a quality grade school as quickly as possible. One of the essential ways to pull Ethiopia out of its poverty is to educate its citizens.

We all go out of our ways to give our kiddos the very best we possibly can. In Ethiopia, this looks very different than it does for you and me in the US!

Lifesong for Orphans is supporting 3 schools in the Ziway, Ethiopia area. We are currently repairing one of the schools and are in the process of building another, but are hopeful to use all three this fall.

As you start gathering school supplies for your kids, would you consider helping the children in Ziway?

We are in need of new desks, lights, and fixtures!

Current supply shelves:

Current ‘desks’:

New desks needed:

Make a donation here and indicate ‘Ethiopia school needs’ in the description.

To stay up to date on the progress, check back here.