About Friends of FOCUS 1000
The Ebola epidemic in West Africa has been described by the World Health Organization as one of the most challenging Ebola outbreaks in recent times with far reaching effects on the countries affected and the world as a whole.
In all emergencies, children being the most vulnerable members of society are often the worst hit. Some of these children have lost one or both parents or guardians. For these children the trauma of loss, isolation and stigma are the new battles they face in their young lives. In a recent National KAP survey conducted by FOCUS 1000 with support from UNICEF and CRS, findings showed a high level of stigma and discrimination towards Ebola survivors.
With indication of the future impact this dreadful disease will have on the lives of our children emotionally, psychologically and socially, FOCUS 1000 with support from the Friends of FOCUS 1000 has provided funds to support these children.
FOCUS 1000 believes that there are opportunities to support these children at home and we feel we can make a difference in their lives. Through the provision of Education and art materials, hygiene packs and Radios, children can be supported with learning at home, use of art and creativity to express themselves, contributing to the emotional and psychological healing process and encourage them to continue the practice of good hygiene behaviours for good health.

Jessica Vapnek
Jessica’s connection to Africa is long and rich: she was a Peace Corps Volunteer in the former Zaire and a

Gail Uilkema
In 2003, after 21 years as a school superintendent, Gail retired and immediately founded Lantern Projects. Over the years she

Bruce Kennedy
Bruce Kennedy was a program officer with UNICEF in Freetown for 5 years in the 1980s. Altogether he worked 17

Donation of Food and Non Food items to Ebola Orphans and Survivors in Bo District
Concerned Mothers Movement for Women’s Participation in Development, in collaboration with FOCUS 1000 has distributed food and non-food items to Fifty (50) most vulnerable Ebola

Donation to St Georges Foundation
The Ebola Virus Disease outbreak has orphaned thousands of Children, while a good number of them have become survivors. Some of these orphans and survivors