Notes from the Field

Women’s Global Education Project (WGEP) is a Chicago-based NGO focused on advancing education and literacy in rural Africa. In Senegal where we work, two-thirds of women aged 15 and up cannot read or write and only 27% of girls go to secondary school (UNESCO). Moreover, in the Fatik region of Senegal, 90% of schools lack libraries or reading rooms (ACR). WGEP is working to change this. 

Our partners on the ground have been working tirelessly to respond to the flooding in Peru and Colombia. Our partner Convoy of Hope recently provided more than 45 families in Peru with solar lights as part of response efforts following devastating flooding in the region. 

Peace Corps volunteer Madeline distributes LuminAID solar lanterns to a community in Madagascar without access to electricity. A school now has light even on rainy days, local restaurants can illuminate the evening meal, and families prepare food easier and safer. 

Often, it’s simple and thoughtful solutions that can make the most impact. Light is no exception. LuminAID lights offer a safe alternative to impoverished families in India whose daily lives were illuminated by open flames or lanterns with noxious fumes and expensive fuel costs. LuminAID has partnered with the NGO Responsible Charity to bring access to safe light and wide-reaching impact to Indian families in need.

Our partners at Hearts out for Haiti received this letter from Tim, a volunteer in the field. Read more about how the lights he distributed helped students and teachers in Durrisy, Haiti.

Cheyanne, a librarian at Gulu Primary School, shares their story of distributing lights to teachers and students in Uganda. The impact the lights had for the teachers and students is immeasurable! Thank you, Cheyanne for sharing your story and your wonderful photos from distributing the lights!

Our partners at Responsible Charity share their experience distributing lights in India. We are so honored that the lights have made such a positive impact in the lives of the villagers - by helping children study, women feel comfortable at night, and just by providing the basic necessity of light.

Our newest Notes from the Field comes from Peace Corps Volunteer Kelsey Smith. Kelsey was stationed in Malawi and spent over two years living among the gracious people of this tiny country, working hand-in-hand with community members to combat deforestation and promote environmental awareness and education.

The Kathmandu Post reported that up to 70% of houses in rural areas have been destroyed close to theepicentre in Gorkha. We're working with our partner organizations on the ground to distribute LuminAID lights to those homeless and without electricity.