In Sierra Leone most schools have Thanksgiving celebrations, in which students, teachers, parents, alumni, and the broader community come together to show gratitude for their education. The celebrations have parades and church services and include praying for supporters and asking for God’s continued blessings. Sierra Leone is known for its religious tolerance, and the services are attended by people of all religions.

 Empowering Children School in Freetown held its Thanksgiving celebration on March 23rd. The celebration was attended by over 600 people! Everyone participated in a parade from the church to the school, along with three bands. There was a band to represent the parents, the preschool, and the primary school. When the parade reached the school, the bands continued to play as everyone shared in light refreshments provided by the school as well as community members. 

Despite the many challenges faced, including poverty, hunger, and losing everything to yearly floods, students and staff still have much for which to be grateful. We have a safe learning environment out of the flood zone. We have dedicated teachers who are committed to the success of their students. We have generous supporters around the world. Our students consistently have high scores on required national exams. Before entering secondary schools, 6th graders must pass an exam, and Empowering Children students always do well. 

As the students marched, they carried two banners. One banner represented the school. The other banner honors the donor who pays the rent on our school building each year, ensuring that we have uninterrupted learning, as this building is out of the flood zone. The community comes together with parents, staff, students, and alumni for a shared expression of gratitude and joy. 

We are very grateful to each of our supporters. Thank you for your ongoing generosity, which is lifting the children out of poverty by providing a quality education that they need and deserve. Please continue to support SHARP and ECS so we can keep the school open and enroll others who are disadvantaged by their circumstances.