We at the Ishmael Beah Foundation (IBF) are deeply concerned with the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. The people of West Africa are our family and our friends. We send our thoughts and prayers to those who have been affected by the outbreak.

IBF is monitoring the situation closely and is in regular communication with its volunteers and beneficiaries in West Africa. Through our communication, we know that families are unable to earn their regular daily wages, as economic activity has stalled as a result of the outbreak. Schools, among other institutions and businesses, have temporarily ceased operations to prevent the virus from spreading further.

While we understand the necessity of such procedures, it’s important that we are prepared to support families in West Africa who will need time to recover from the loss wages and business activity. We will do this by remaining committed to our core mission to provide educational opportunities for children in the region.

With that in mind, the organization is focusing its effort on fundraising for children’s tuition and related school fees for when operations in educational facilities resume.

Until then, we appreciate your help with the preparation to support the children once they get back to school.