In 2016, we purchased and distributed mosquito nets to help reduce the ongoing risk of malaria in the villages in Bolgatanga. We provided nets to the inhabitants of an orphanage, as well as to villagers throughout the region. In addition to handing out the mosquito nets, we coordinated with a Peace Corps malaria specialist and with the Ministry of Health to both provide malaria prevention education and register villagers for healthcare on the same day.
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Distributing mosquito nets at an orphanage As part of our donation mission, we provided mosquito nets to all of the inhabitants of the Mango Tree Orphanage in Bolgatanga. There are currently over 1 million orphaned children in Ghana, and we have always worked to aid orphans and widows in whatever way we can. It was a very moving experience to support the orphanage in this way and everyone was incredibly grateful. Susan, our customer service director, is seen on the right, and was elated to be a part of the ceremony.
Kerry, a Peace Corps specialist, providing instruction In one of the far-flung villages in Bolgatanga, we organized an event to distribute mosquito nets to the most at-risk members of the community: expectant mothers and children younger than 5 years old. Pregnant women and their newborns are 2-3 times more likely to suffer severe malarial illness, so aiding them is a critical part of the fight against the disease. As part of our efforts, we arranged with the US Peace Corps to bring a malaria education specialist (Kerry, pictured here next to the mosquito nets) to give a demonstration. We also coordinated with the National Ministry of Health to organize a mini-clinic for anyone needing to register for healthcare. It was quite a productive day!
Saying farewell to our Peace Corps volunteer Kerry, our intrepid Peace Corps volunteer, headed back to her home village 12 hours after leaving, taking local transport for the 3-hour return trip. It was a day to remember, and one that we cherished, having had the opportunity to distribute 300 mosquito nets, register 300 villagers for annual health care, and provide a day clinic for anyone needing medical attention.