In 2009, the United Nations Human Development Report once again ranked Sierra Leone, West Africa as one of the least developed nations in the world. Even now, eight years after the civil war ended, the people of Sierra Leone still struggle to survive.  The nation suffers from lack of basic infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and clean drinking water; there is woefully inadequate healthcare, and unemployment tops 70%. The ones who suffer the most in this environment – the most vulnerable – are the children.  The Child Rescue Centre is making a difference through the support it provides to nearly 250 children in Bo, Sierra Leone

State of Sierra Leone

• 35% Literacy Rate
• Civil war caused an est. 50,000 deaths and displaced 1/3 of the population
• Average life expectancy 47 years old
• Very High risk of major infectious diseases
• 76% of the population is below the poverty line of $2 per day

“It’s hard for us to imagine the tragic past of the children, but together we are working to secure a bright and prosperous future”  Tom Berlin, HCW Board Member, Senior Pastor Floris UMC