In a desperate attempt to survive and escape their misery, impoverished young girls in Sierra Leone often find themselves succumbing to drugs, theft and prostitution. Their well-being is a top priority at Don Bosco Fambul in Freetown where many of these damaged victims of poverty are on the path toward a better life.

To ease the traumatic experiences of these girls, Don Bosco Fambul provides a multi-level approach to care that includes intervention, crisis response, medical and psychological counseling, therapeutic rehabilitation, as well as educational workshops and physical fitness training.

Our Salesian missionaries fulfill the girls’ basic needs by providing three daily meals, clean clothing, and personal hygiene products. Young mothers receive additional assistance for their children. And, many of the girls are provided with tutoring services to prepare them for reintegration into the school system.

The girls at Don Bosco Fambul also receive legal assistance and education on fundamental human rights. The Salesians engage in mediation with law enforcement officials to address minor offenses committed by the girls before arriving at the center, seeking alternative solutions to resolve disputes positively.

“These girls have been through so much distress in their short lives,” explains Father Michael Conway, Director of Salesian Missions. “In addition to providing for their essential needs, Don Bosco Fambul offers a safe haven where they can experience newfound joy and personal growth through organized outings and group activities.”

What started in 2001 as a mission to rescue child soldiers, Don Bosco Fambul has evolved into one of Sierra Leone’s top child-welfare organizations, improving the lives and futures of the country’s most vulnerable girls and boys.

Learn more about our work in Sierra Leone.

Our mission is to rescue vulnerable youth from the streets and empower them to lead happy, healthy and productive lives. What’s your mission?