Education Liberia Project #72996

Adult and Family Literacy 2026 - 2027

by Friends of Liberia Inc.

Summary

WE-CARE's Family Literacy Initiative/HIPPY will support 460 families in five low-income Liberian communities from 2026-2027. Children ages 3-5 receive home-based early learning, literacy support, and parent engagement activities that prepare them for school success. To strengthen family income and resilience, mothers access microloans, business training, peer groups, mentoring, and guidance that build confidence, stability, and long-term growth. This strengthens families and builds hope ahead.

$50,000
total goal

$47,577
remaining

22
donors

1
monthly donor

1
fundraiser

5
months

Challenge

Liberia remains one of the world's poorest countries, with extremely high unemployment and most people living on less than $1.25 per day. This hardship is intensified by a national illiteracy rate above 50%, with only 34% of women able to read and write. Poverty, limited schooling, and weak support systems reduce families' ability to provide learning, healthcare, and protection for their children, especially girls, who face greater risks, barriers, and lost opportunities each day.

Solution

A needs assessment by WE-CARE, FOL, and HIPPY International found that many families had children ages 3-5 not enrolled in school. WE-CARE's Family Literacy Initiative trains parents-mainly single mothers-to teach early learning at home, but many still cannot afford school fees. The project will provide 100 women with microloans, adult literacy, and business training to grow income, support families, keep children in school, and strengthen long-term stability, opportunity, and hope.

Long-Term Impact

The project will increase school participation by helping children start at the right age and remain enrolled over time. Parents gain literacy skills, stronger involvement in school and community life, and improved relationships with their children. The program also develops a cadre of paraprofessionals who coach families in early learning. By empowering women with vital skills and resources, it reduces gender inequality and supports lasting community progress, resilience, and opportunity.