This past Saturday, in the bustling villages of Oyibi and Cape Coast, hundreds of school-aged children will make the walk up to the Dankamf Educational Complex. Dressed in their white polo t-shirts which reads, “Tender Loving Care 4 Children,” they will be attending Read, Feed, and Lead‘s Saturday learning session. Entering into their 14th week, each child has been hand-picked through the utilization of an assessment tool that identifies a child’s vulnerability and need for additional learning access. 

We asked our National Coordinator, Eric Amano-Mpianim to identify 2 students who showcased excellence as a result of the program. Today, we introduce you to Daniel. Daniel is in 3rd grade and has been attending Read, Feed, and Lead for the past 2 years. He is a bright and bubbly little boy who had some behavioral concerns when he first started in our programming. Through the patience and diligence of our incredible Volunteers who facilitate the curriculum, Daniel has excelled in the areas of Math and Reading and sits attentively during sessions now. Daniel really enjoys doing math problems and appreciates the facilitators taking their time when he doesn’t understand. 

Daniel is just one success story of many. Our data shows that children who participate regularly in our learning sessions have increased test scores, and their attendance in school becomes consistent. Perhaps this is why every volunteer has agreed to return next year to offer their time and talents. 

In addition to learning sessions, each child is provided a meal, snacks and clean water. This is a necessity for many families who have multiple mouths to feed and are without employment. In 2023, Read, Feed, and Lead served 5,040 meals and in 2024 we are projecting to double our impact. 

So what does your Saturday look like? For some of us it’s a day to do the laundry that has piled up over the week, mow the lawn or run errands. Sometimes the hustle and bustle of life keeps us from remembering that education is a luxury in some parts of the world. As you move around this Saturday, remember our children in Ghana who have prioritized their learning and feel free to send a gift. An ongoing gift of $20 per month covers 1 child’s programming expenses allowing them access to 40 learning sessions, meals/snacks and 1 pair of shoes and school uniform. 

~ Kyla Farquhar
Director of Programs and Operations