By Ibrahim S. Bangura
On April 19, 2025, the Anglican Diocesan Men’s Union (DMU) demonstrated its steadfast commitment to aiding vulnerable children by donating essential items to Cheshire Home, a facility dedicated to children with disabilities. The heartfelt donation included bags of rice, clothes, laundering soaps, bundles of water, gallons of cooking oil, and other necessities. The Union also extended support to the caregivers who tirelessly care for the children.
Led by Union President Donald Theo-Harding, the outreach embodied the DMU’s guiding principles of compassion and service, inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ. “The motto of the Diocesan Men’s Union is ‘Following where the Master trod,’ and that Master is Jesus,” said Theo-Harding. “We strive to mirror His example—doing good and showing compassion, especially to children with special needs.”
The Anglican DMU, comprising men from various Anglican congregations within the diocese, has become renowned not only for its fellowship but also for addressing pressing social needs. This year, the Union focused on children with disabilities, a group often marginalized and under-supported in Sierra Leone.
Reflecting on the Union’s journey in social outreach, Theo-Harding shared how their initiative started seven years ago, initially supporting the elderly at a home in Grafton. A visit to Cheshire Home four years ago profoundly impacted the group, prompting them to adopt the facility and commit to annual support. “What we saw touched us deeply,” he said. “We realized the children needed more help than we had imagined.”
During the visit, members delivered a variety of goods, including rice, sugar, gari, clothes, and water. Theo-Harding clarified that the donations were made possible by individual pledges from members rather than central funding. “Each member played a part—some brought food, others helped with logistics. It’s this collective spirit that makes our gesture more meaningful,” he explained.
Cheshire Home accommodates over 20 children, many facing severe health and developmental challenges. The Union’s support arrived at a crucial time, as the facility has struggled to meet basic needs due to a lack of government support since January.
The donation underscores the indispensable role of civil society and faith-based organizations in bridging gaps left by public institutions. Such acts not only provide material support but also restore dignity and hope to marginalized groups.
Theo-Harding emphasized the spiritual and moral mission driving their actions. “When Jesus was here, He paid special attention to the marginalized, especially children. We are simply following His example. These children deserve to be seen, valued, and loved,” he said.
He also encouraged other organizations to follow their lead. “If every group adopted just one home, imagine how many lives would be transformed across this nation,” he added.
Rev. Canon Dr. Reginald Saine-Pratt, Archdeacon and a senior member of Cheshire Home’s management committee, expressed profound gratitude for the DMU’s unwavering support. “The challenges we face are immense,” he said. “It is through the generosity of kind-hearted individuals and organizations like the DMU that we can continue this essential work.”
He highlighted the difficulty of meeting daily needs amid economic hardship. “Feeding these children is a major challenge. Yet, supporters like you choose to stand with us. Your generosity makes all the difference.”
One of the children, Blessing S. Kallon, shared her appreciation. “Life here is tough. But your support gives us hope. It shows we are not forgotten.”
Facility Manager Unisa Carew added: “We are deeply thankful to the DMU for showing up when we needed them most. Their contribution is truly a lifeline.”