The Need: One of the greatest barriers preventing girls in Monrovia, Liberia, from attending school is the lack of safe, affordable, and reliable transportation. In our study on how poverty and a lack of transportation creates difficulties for school children, particularly girls, in Monrovia we found that the most girls spend anywhere from 1 to 4+ hours walking to school each day, and that transportation costs can be as high as half of a family’s weekly income.
The Solution: With a clear need for school transportation in Monrovia, Shelter For Life International (SFL) plans to establish a school bus social enterprise that transports students from point A to point B safely. Not only will the enterprise help to increase the enrollment and attendance of girls in Monrovia, but once seeded, will develop into a thriving and fruitful self-sufficient business, providing local jobs and increasing transportation options for Liberians.
The Project: The enterprise will be centered on the development of a bus network, beginning with a minimum of 2 buses, and then expanding in following years. The buses will be dedicated to transporting students, particularly girls, to and from school during the day.
End-of-year goal: $15,000
Tipping point goal: $150,000
Ultimate goal: $600,000
This festive season, we ask that you consider giving towards our $15,000 goal. With your support, not only can we get this project up and running, but we can significantly change the lives of girls in urban Liberia by giving them the opportunity to change the world, one class at a time!
