In 2005 the UN declared that “Literacy is a correlate of poverty and hunger.”

While elementary education is free in most African countries, the cost of fees, uniforms and supplies is more than most families can afford. Because of need, many children must work to help support their family instead of going to school. In Ethiopia alone for example, less than 50% of girls finish elementary school.

LIA and our partner churches have started schools in Kenya, Ethiopia and other countries throughout the Horn of Africa in order to offer education to the poorest of the poor. In keeping with the wholistic model, these schools may also offer feeding programs, spiritual training, and access to micro-loans for parents.

Part of the support families receive through the Orphans and Vulnerable Children Program goes to paying school fees and purchasing uniforms and school supplies.