Freetown, Sierra Leone – Don Bosco Fambul, a national leader in child protection, operates the largest interim care and therapeutic centers for abused children in the country. Established in 1998 to rehabilitate and reintegrate child soldiers, the organization has since grown to support Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable children and youth through its two main campuses in Freetown.
The Fort Street Campus includes a mobile project that conducts outreach programs and interventions for youth living on the street. The Hope Plus Project provides education, skills training, and reintegration support for girls exploited in prostitution. Meanwhile, the Pademba Project focuses on rehabilitating boys in conflict with the law, including those in detention. Salesians also operate the ChildLine, a 24/7 toll-free helpline for children in crisis, ensuring rapid response and referral to appropriate services.
At the Therapy Center Campus, Salesians operate a shelter for girls who have experienced abuse, trafficking, and cruelty. The staff provide psychosocial, medical, educational, and legal assistance. The Girls’ Shelter Plus focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating girls exploited in prostitution, while the Child Care Center offers temporary shelter, care, and rehabilitation for boys living on the street. The Group Home provides long-term alternative care for boys who have been rejected, neglected, or abandoned, helping them rebuild their lives in a supportive environment.
A Salesian explained, “The Don Bosco Fambul Therapy Center operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week with qualified personnel, offering innovative programs and strategic partnerships. It features a metal training workshop and an automotive mechanic garage for beneficiaries engaged in skill development. The organization also works closely with local and international organizations to enhance its impact.”
Transformative Stories
One youth who benefited from Don Bosco Fambul is Yappoh, 18, orphaned at a young age and a victim of child trafficking. Through the intervention of the Sierra Leone Police and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Yappoh was connected to Don Bosco Fambul. Despite efforts to trace his relatives, none were found. Recognizing his potential, Don Bosco Fambul enrolled Yappoh in an auto mechanic workshop. He thrived in this environment, earning the opportunity to assist at the Don Bosco garage, where he further honed his expertise.
The Salesian noted, “Yappoh’s transformation from a vulnerable trafficking victim to a skilled and promising young auto mechanic showcases the power of opportunity and determination. His story inspires others to overcome adversity with perseverance and the right support system.”
Another youth who found safety at Don Bosco Fambul is Sando, 9, a victim of sexual abuse. Sando and her sisters have been staying at Don Bosco Fambul for the past three years. Sando faces significant challenges as she deals with the trauma of abuse while managing a difficult family situation. After losing her father, her mother, who is deaf, mute, and partially blind, is unable to provide support. Other family members have not stepped in to help, and her uncle has suggested adoption, feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility.
Despite these challenges, Sando’s determination to continue her education at Don Bosco Fambul is inspiring. Now in class three and performing well academically, she also engages in cultural dance, quiz competitions, and choir, bringing joy and connection during her journey.
Looking Ahead
Don Bosco Fambul continues to provide life-changing programs for Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable children and youth, demonstrating the power of opportunity and support in transforming lives. Their comprehensive approach to child protection ensures that each child receives the care and assistance they need to thrive and build a brighter future.
Source; https://missionnewswire.org/sierra-leone-youth-thrive-with-life-changing-programs/