Salesian missionaries with Don Bosco Fambul, one of Sierra Leone’s leading child-welfare organizations located in Freetown, provided support to 217 girls who had been rescued from prostitution. Funding was possible through a Christmas concert at the Vatican in 2023 to raise awareness about human trafficking and child prostitution in Sierra Leone.
All the girls received care and resources, while 86 underwent long-term rehabilitation and training sessions. Additionally, 137 girls participated in a shorter intervention program that included immediate crisis response, medical care and psychological counseling. The 217 girls had access to therapeutic rehabilitation as well as educational sessions designed to enhance their motor skills, concentration and physical fitness.
Each year, 160-180 girls undergo screening which helps determine the root causes of their trauma. Following these thorough assessments, personalized plans are created to help the girls overcome symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
At the Girls Shelter, Salesians provide three daily meals, clothing and personal hygiene products for 40-50 girls. Special assistance is offered to young mothers to meet the needs of their small children. Each week, 10-15 girls receive medical assistance including first aid, malaria treatment, and care for other ailments at the Don Bosco Fambul Hospital.
Approximately 40-50 girls have participated in customized informal lessons to prepare for reintegration into the formal educational system. Eight workshops have focused on hygiene, health, human rights, sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, friendship, trauma healing techniques and anger management.
Not all the support at the Girls Shelter is so formal. A Salesian noted, “We organize outings to various locations to help the girls overcome their traumas. These precious moments provide opportunities for personal growth, relaxation and fun, allowing the girls to engage in activities such as swimming, beach volleyball, and sandcastle building.”
Support is rounded out with legal assistance and education about their fundamental human rights. Salesians engage in mediation with law enforcement to address minor offenses committed by the girls before arriving at Don Bosco Fambul, seeking alternative solutions to resolve disputes positively.
The Salesian explained, “This extensive project is divided into five phases including identification and reception, rehabilitation, support and legal representation, networking, and finally, tracing and family reunification. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of all those involved in the project, a remarkable 196 girls have been reintegrated into their families or have found placements with extended or foster families in the area.”
Salesian missionaries have been serving in Sierra Leone since 2001 when they began working to rehabilitate former child soldiers through Don Bosco Fambul. In the years since, Don Bosco Fambul, has been offering food, clothing, crisis intervention services, shelter, educational opportunities, long-term counseling and family reunification.
Source; https://missionnewswire.org/sierra-leone-girls-rescued-from-prostitution-find-hope-at-salesian-shelter/