Notes from the Field

LuminAID partner Convoy of Hope is on the front lines of refugee aid and empowerment. They are currently responding to the Syrian refugee crisis, where LuminAID solar lights are among the essential supplies being delivered to these displaced families. These solar lights are cutting down on fire risks for refugee families, allowing kids to safely study after dark, and families to go about their everyday tasks even in temporary structures without access to electricity.

Electricity is scarce in Cambodia, where over 40% of the population is estimated to go without. The government struggles to connect communities, as around 85% of the population lives in rural areas. But the country boasts an abundant resource, and a potential solution: the sun. Twende Solar introduces a two-fold project to bring solar light and energy to schools and homes. 

Access to safe light can have a diverse and wide-ranging impact on families recovering from natural disasters, conflicts, or living in energy impoverished areas. Explore the ways that safe light can help families survive and thrive in communities worldwide.

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!