New project: ‘Shoes, singlets & socks’


As you are probably aware, in addition to running the orphanage, our NGO is also committed to improving the living conditions of the local population.

Education is not free in Gambia. While government schools are generally tuition-free, this does not mean that all children can afford to go to school. Parents have to provide schoolbooks, school uniforms, a school bag, black shoes, notebooks, pens and more, all at their own expense. This is something many parents do not have the means to do, and without school materials, you are not allowed to attend school. 

The education system in Gambia is based on the British model, including the requirement of school uniforms. 

Nursery school lasts for three years but is not compulsory.

From the age of six, children start primary education, beginning in Class 1 (Primary 1) and ending in Class 6 (Primary 6). After this, they can progress to secondary education, provided there are enough funds.

Many children attend school wearing plastic flip-flops, despite the fact that both boys and girls are required to wear black, closed-toe shoes to school, as well as white socks and a white vest (singlet) under their school uniforms.


The ‘Shoes, singlets and socks’ campaign aims to help the greatest number of children from the most vulnerable families to go to school with a smile on their face with a new pair of black shoes, singlets and socks. 


Each child needs three pairs of socks and three singlets: ’One to wear, one in the laundry and one in the cupboard’ as they say so beautifully in Gambia. This cannot be done without your help! 


For just €12.50, you can help a child with a package consisting of a pair of black shoes, three singlets, and three pairs of white socks. The shoes are unisex, suitable for both boys and girls.


The contents of the packages are purchased locally and are intended for pre-school and primary school pupils. The new school year at government schools starts again at the end of September, but that doesn’t mean that each child has already purchased school supplies, simply because many parents cannot afford them. 


As in previous campaigns, employees of the orphanage will personally distribute the packages so that they reach the children of families who need your help the most.


We would really appreciate it if you could help one - or even more - children by sponsoring a ‘Shoes, singlets & socks’ package.You can transfer your contribution to account number IBAN LU42 0030 6563 9934 0000 (BGLLLULL), in the name of the organisation Les Amis de Gambie or via PayPal citing ‘Shoes, singlets & socks’.


Thank you greatlyin advance for your contribution!


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