Transforming Lives Through Education

In June, Goods For Good sent a consignment of essential items, including school uniforms, sportswear, clothing, and toiletries, weighing a total of 6,190 kg —equivalent to approximately 400 boxes — to Sierra Leone. This consignment, part of our Back to School initiative, was destined for Freetown, where it would support a new community school opening in September. The school is to provide education to 300 working children, marking a significant step toward a brighter future for these young people.

The shipment was successfully received and distributed by our charity partner, Practical Tools Initiative, who has been working tirelessly to uplift some of the most deprived communities in Sierra Leone. The distribution covered a broad range of vulnerable groups, including children who labour in stone-breaking quarries, people with disabilities such as war amputees, and the largest group of people with albinism in Sierra Leone.

Impact at Community Level

The consignment was transported to the city of Bo, Southern Sierra Leone, where it was met with immense gratitude. For the communities, this delivery marked the first time such comprehensive support had been directly provided.

• Support for Working Children: The consignment reached over 300 working children in Freetown who are now able to attend the newly established community school. Before this initiative, these children were forced to work in hazardous environments like stone quarries to support their families. The provision of uniforms, school bags, and other essentials has given them the chance to receive an education, offering hope for a brighter future.
• Assistance to People with Disabilities: Many of the recipients were war amputees and individuals with visual impairments, often living in isolated camps under extreme poverty. Goods For Good's support provided much-needed clothing and toiletries, significantly improving their quality of life.
• Empowering the Community of People with Albinism: One of the most isolated and ostracised groups in Sierra Leone are those living with albinism. The clothing and personal care products provided by Goods For Good, including toothpaste specifically suitable for people with albinism, have made a huge difference. This support enabled them to protect their skin from direct sunlight and maintain better hygiene, making a substantial difference in their day-to-day lives.

Our collaboration with Practical Tools Initiative demonstrates the far-reaching impact of our Back to School efforts. We are proud to have contributed to the opening of the community school in Freetown and to have helped some of Sierra Leone’s most marginalised communities take a step towards a brighter, more hopeful future. Overall, over 600 individuals benefited directly from this consignment.