Dear Friend,

There is reason for excitement as ACN begins to work towards the goals set for 2024, especially in the Wolisso region of Ethiopia.

Wolisso, Ethiopia, like many other regions throughout the country, struggles with a wide range of issues affecting vulnerable children, rooted in various socio-economic and cultural factors. Poverty is a daily reality for many, leading to inadequate access to food, shelter, healthcare and education for the children. Orphanhood is all too frequent, with many children losing one or both parents to HIV/AIDS and poverty, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation, neglect, and inadequacies in virtually every aspect of their young lives. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, incorporating willing stakeholders to create a new reality and a better future for these vulnerable, precious children.

Now the GOOD NEWS! Recent agreements with the Ethiopian government, specifically with the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs and the Ministry of Education have set the stage for ACN to do a mighty work in Wolisso. In collaboration with volunteer mentors from the local Meseret Kirstos Church, ACN is poised to launch our After-School Hope Center – a highly successful program providing a strong academic, social, and spiritual platform – designed to break the vicious cycle of poverty and hopelessness that engulfs this community. The team is in place and excited to see how the program will transform the lives of the 100 children to be served in this first session, and in the future as a strategic part of the Wolisso community for generations to come.

Consider the story of how after-school programs have impacted other children's lives such as Mohammad Abdullah.

Mohammad Abdullah, a 10-year-old 3rd-grade student at East Meda PrimarySchool, faced significant educational challenges due to his low-income background, limited resources, and academic struggles. However, upon joining the ACN’s afterschool program at Holeta Gunet Church in May 2023, his life took a positive turn. The program provided essential educational support and nutrients, leading to remarkable academic progress and boosted confidence. Volunteers like Sister Sena Eshetu played a crucial role in providing personal attention and guidance, resulting in improved academic performance and overall well-being for Mohammad. Testimonials from beneficiaries, including Mohammad himself, highlight the transformative impact of the program. The success of the program underscores the importance of community-based initiatives in empowering low-performing students and nurturing young minds. 

YOU can play an important role in the launch and success of the ACN After-School Hope Center in Wolisso for less than the price of a coffee. Funding is desperately needed for the provision of food, medical care, tutoring supplies and other essentials, but is definitely within reach when you consider:

• Food and Snacks: $1.75 per child per day 

• Medical Clinic visit: $2 per child / 2 exams per year 

• Classroom Supplies - $25 per child per semester 

• Volunteer Training for 40 - $0.50 per volunteer– just $20 per training session 

Will you join and make a difference in the lives of these children, who are simply asking for the most basic needs?

Let 2024 be your year to help make a difference in the lives of the vulnerable children in Wolisso. Consider partnering with ACN and share in the true joy that giving brings – both to the giver and the receiver.

WAYS TO GIVE:

• Visit www.AllianceCareNow.org/giving
• Click the red "Give Today" button below
• Mail a check made out to Alliance Care Now to:
  P.O. Box 8205 McLean, VA 22106

For those donating through a foundation, please continue using the name Orphan Care Ethiopia as we're in the process of updating to ACN.

With Gratitude,

Naomi S. Haile
President and CEO
Alliance Care Now