Help 500 Children Living in a Garbage Dump

Building a Future For IDP Women in Mali

Through the generosity of our donors, ATEG (Arts To End Genocide) is improving the lives of hundreds of Internally Displaced Persons living in the Faladié IDP Camp and thousands of children living on the streets.

In February, 2022 ATEG launched a Women’s Skills Training Program for learning to sew The women received instruction 5 days a week for 2 months. After graduation they began a 3 month internship with local sewing companies. This original group of women have become trainers to additional women. ATEG constructed a facility to serve as a workplace, which is powered by solar energy. We purchased sewing machines and supplies for the women. We then assisted them in organizing a Women’s Cooperative, and are sending members of their Management Team for business training. The Cooperative is now producing products for sale at local marketplaces. The project is working with the Social Development Affairs office in charge of IDPs. On October 2, 2022 the facility was “officially” opened and turned over to the Women’s Cooperative. Participation in this project will lead to women contributing to the social and economic growth of their community. This project will restore their dignity and facilitate a reduction in the number of women and girls exposed to gender-based violence. ATEG is giving these women the tools to harness their power and lift them out of poverty.

Other ATEG programs include providing essential health services at the ATEG/Rotary clinic as well as on-site visits at IDP camps and at schools. At Faladié our food distribution program delivers rice on a dependable schedule. For the first time these people can feel secure in knowing where their next meal is coming from.

If you are interested in continuing to support our efforts, please visit our project on GlobalGiving https://goto.gg/24187. Our year end fund drive will begin on Giving Tuesday, November 29. Although the drive will run through December, for donations on that day only, GlobalGiving is offering $1.2 million in incentives. We are most grateful for your support in any amount to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of our brothers and sisters around the world.

With Sincere Gratitude,

Mitch Lewis