Recently, Christian Children's Fund of Canada (CCFC) shipped a 40’ container to Burkina Faso filled with a variety of educational items just in time for Christmas. The shipment included textbooks, toys, sports equipment, computers, desks, chairs, blackboards, shelving units and bicycles. The shipment arrived safely and items were distributed between five different communities throughout the country.

The desks, chairs and blackboards were used in various schools across the country where children previously sat either on the floor or on mats. Some furniture was used in local community centres, including the newest centre in the community of Koupela that houses the first CCFC initiated Computers for School project in the country.

Libraries were created and stocked with textbooks, giving children and teachers access to reading materials to further enhance their reading level and their interest in education. The toys that were included in this shipment are being used to support various Learning Through Play programs.

Included in the shipment were also over 50 bicycles which have had a huge impact in the community. Some children have to travel more than 6km each way just to attend school, often with little or no footwear. This was the case for Nomwende François Ouédraogo and his family who live in a farming area of Kougri, a village named Bonkoasweogo. This area is located over 6km from Kougri town where François and his three brothers are attending school. Thanks to CCFC and this shipment he now has a bicycle! He picks up his brothers and they now travel to school on this bicycle, making the travel easier and taking far less time.

Overall, this shipment has made a significant difference in the various sectors where we work. The communities are thankful to CCFC and our sponsors for making this possible!