Sierra Leone is a country that does not receive much press coverage; however, the hardships and suffering of the people of Sierra Leone are very real.The children of Sierra Leone have borne the greatest abuse. During an eleven-year civil war from 1991 to 2002, they were subjected to brutal violence and recruited as military combatants. They lost parents, homes, schools and medical care. Some three thousand children still beg in the streets of Freetown naked, hungry and often missing limbs, victims of wanton cruelties. Faced with this knowledge, we must place ameliorating human suffering at the forefront of our collective consciousness.

What can we do? The Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism has partnered with Saving Needy Children and Arms Around Africa, two non-profit humanitarian organizations helping the people of Sierra Leone, to hold a Sierra Leone Clothing Drive.

As the summer draws to a close and families begin back-to-school shopping please remember to save the clothing that your child has outgrown. With your help, this program will provide many children in the province and city of Freetown with clothing and supplies they desperately need.

When? For the remainder of September, a box will be in TBA’s lobby. The Temple will ship the box to Saving Needy Children. If you want to send a box of clothing directly from your home, please label it as follows:

The Religious Action Center’s Sierra Leone Clothing Drive
c/o Saving Needy Children/Arms Around Africa
Mission Center 5 Pleasant View Drive, PO Box 2053, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055,
DONATION/NO VALUE

What to collect? Children’s shoes, t-shirts, shorts, underwear, socks, hats, head scarves, sports equipment, toys, and school supplies.

Items may be new or gently used, and suitable for children of any age. All items will be delivered to orphanages and camps.

This is the first time that Saving Needy Children and Arms Around Africa have partnered with a Jewish organization and we know that our members will be able to make a significant contribution. Your participation can bring comfort to those who are in desperate need of help and healing.