As children all around you begin the new school year, consider this...130 million primary school children around the world do not have access to an education, two thirds of whom are girls.

Even when a school exists in a developing community, poverty often prevents parents from being able to afford to pay school fees, or to buy mandatory uniforms and books. Those able to afford school fees often favour their sons; when a girl does make it to school, she often drops out because of domestic responsibilities. In addition, families living with adults sick with HIV/AIDS usually rely on young girls to take care of them and the rest of the household.

Thankfully, our supporters have changed the lives of many youngsters by connecting them with the education they deserve. One of those children is a young girl in Meki, Ethiopia, named Shukare. She started school at age nine, when she was able to attend a school built and supported entirely by Canadian Feed The Children and our partner organization, AMDO, a school that provides access to education for more than 400 students. For this valuable gift, I thank you, as does Shukare, who wrote to us this summer about the difference school has made for her:

“ There is change in my life. I have now reached grade four, which is a big progress. I now dream to continue my studies until I reach university and eventually become a medical doctor.”

Learning of the struggles faced by many young girls, and reading these words from Shukare, resounds with me in a way that other parents can likely understand. I couldn’t help but think of my own children and the chances they had here in Canada. That is why I am asking you today to consider joining me in supporting Canadian Feed The Children with a donation so that girls like Shukare have a chance at shaping their own future through an education.

Thank  you! Jim Dahl Executive Director, Canadian Feed The Children