The Red Cross works to give children in Liberia a helping hand

Topics: Africa, International Humanitarian Law
August 03, 2012

The Red Cross works to give children in Liberia a helping hand

Liberia continues to experience the effects of a civil war that ended in 2003, leaving people in poverty, and resulting in broken families and a broken educational system with many destitute children. The Liberian Red Cross and its partners, like the Canadian Red Cross, have been working to help mend some of these serious social issues in the African nation.

The Child Advocacy Rehabilitation (CAR) Program was implemented in 2005 with the goal of helping children affected by emergencies and disasters in the region. Such efforts promote recovery from the effects of war, such as emotional trauma and lost years of schooling. These children will have hope for the future through renewed social and vocational opportunities. 

In total, the program can accommodate 300 children per year across two different facilities. There, younger kids are able to learn basic math and reading skills, while older kids are taught advanced courses in these subjects. Additionally, students can learn several trades, including carpentry, masonry, tailoring, welding and dyeing to help them obtain employment later.

Kids involved in the CAR program also have access to counseling, regular meals and transportation to and from school.

Individuals who want to help help Liberian children who are recovering from war can make donations to their local Red Cross. The Canadian Red Cross, along with the British, Norwegian, Swedish and Swiss National Societies, all provide funding to the CAR program.
 

Section Widgets