The anticipation is growing for so many girls in Mauritania as they await the school year to begin this October. Many of them have been sponsored in the past and are excited to know that their sponsor will renew this year. But others have lost their sponsors from previous years, and many more have never been sponsored.
Traditionally, girls in Mauritania are expected to marry in their young teens, and at that point bid farewell to any further education or professional growth as an adult. At the same time, many parents wanting to send their daughters to school cannot afford the cost of tuition fees, uniforms and school supplies, and need the girls’ help with household duties. In an environment such as this, $200 US dollars can literally change lives – and not only for the student! Her mother (or another woman in her community) will receive a $25 microloan for entrepreneurial development, so she can make a greater income without needing her daughter at home. Combined with tutoring and a new Big Sisters program, Girls to School is developing woman entrepreneurs, keeping girls in school, and empowering previously sponsored girls with the opportunity to serve as a mentor and guide.
In the past year, thanks to your contributions, Girls to School has completed the following:
We hope that you will support the efforts of Girls to School. The school year will start up in October, and we encourage you to consider supporting one girl’s entire 2012-2013 school year with a $200 contribution. There are many girls currently on the waiting list for the program. However, any amount is a tremendous help and can provide school supplies, clothing, tutors, or microloans.
To become a sponsor or donate, you can donate online or send a check by September 17 to:
Girls to School
PO Box 45818
Kansas City, MO 64171
Thanks for supporting Girls to School! If you have any questions or want more information, contact Heather at heather@girlstoschool.org.
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