A medical component was added to the outreach efforts in the western
region of Ghana during 2003. Through the provisions arranged with
Ghanaian nurses and an American doctor, free medical care assistance
was provided to 800 people – primarily women and children – from the
villages of Azani, Agona Ahanta, Busua, Dixcove and their surrounding
areas. Donated antibiotics, malaria tablets, vitamins, and other
medicines and medical supplies were distributed as part of the care.
Medical care continues to be one of the cornerstone components of FOG,
Inc.’s holistic approach.
Step 1 of our Poverty Alleviation Initiative. Seeking to expand our
poverty relief efforts in a way that would positively impact the
families for the long-term in the greater Azani area, the future site
for the establishment of a palm oil processing cottage industry was
identified, acquired, cleared, and dedicated near the village of Azani.
Educational Partnership & Outreach. Partnering with middle school
teachers and their students from Hingham, Massachusetts who raised
funds throughout 2002-2003, schoolbooks and supplies, sports
equipment, uniforms, and musical instruments were provided for the
children at the Busua School along with the construction of a modern
playground.
Implemented Scholarship Assistance. Partnering with a women’s
group from the Falmouth, Massachusetts area, scholarship assistance
was provided to 11 Busua School students who successfully completed
their qualifying exams for Senior Secondary School (SSS)
(approximately equivalent to high school in the U.S.).
School Uniform and School Fee Provision. Throughout Ghana, all
school children are expected to wear school uniforms that are to be
supplied by their families. Unfortunately, providing uniforms can be
a financial hardship for some. Working with school administrators and
teachers, many such students from kindergarten through SSS were
identified and supplied with a uniform; others received assistance
with their school fees. Scholarship support for needy students
continues to be an element of FOG, Inc.’s holistic approach to helping
those in need.
Vacation Bible School. Volunteers conducted an interactive
Vacation Bible School program for JSS students at Busua, and Bibles
were subsequently distributed to each participant to support their
spiritual growth and understanding.
