Stuff Your Rucksack

SOS Children's Villages Association of The Gambia

About the organisation

SOS Villages has been providing traditional family-based care and education to orphans and abandoned children for over 60 years. The charity works in 124 countries, building communities for children who have nowhere to turn, providing them with a home and a new mother until they are ready for independent life. Young people are taught practical skills alongside more traditional school education, and are encouraged to take control of their own lives from the age of 16 onwards. Where they are lacking, schools, nurseries and medical centres are also constructed.

Why stuff your rucksack?

The Gambia is one of the poorest countries in mainland Africa and suffers from under-developed health and education systems. Thanks to facilities such as the village’s SOS Vocational Training Centre, however, young people can learn how to set up their own businesses – specialising in carpentry, car mechanics, metal work or tool making. Any items you bring will be used to further these children’s ambitions, and improve their job prospects.

How to get there

• Buses and coaches run to Serrekunda from Banjul International Airport.
• The Gambia’s national SOS office can be found at the address above. Please contact the office before arrival for directions to the village.

Need to know

SOS Children does not usually send volunteers out to villages, but visitors are often welcome. To arrange a visit, contact Will Osborn in the UK head office on +44 (0)1223 365589 or willo@soschildrensvillages.org.uk