Sierra Leone and Liberia

Sierra Leone and Liberia, both situated along the West African coast, stand out not just for their status as two of the world's poorest nations but also for the unique challenges they've faced. Prolonged and devastating civil conflicts have not only displaced thousands of

people but have also left deep psychological scars and physical amputations in their wake. Adding to the complexity of their plight, decades of unfulfilled commitments from various organizations, including non-governmental ones, have left those in the direst circumstances burdened with feelings of despair, disillusionment, and hopelessness.

A prevalent thread among those who had suffered amputations, disabilities, and homelessness was their struggle to attain self-sufficiency. Widespread societal stigma, which arises at the mere sight of amputees, creates substantial barriers to securing employment. Additionally, many of those who had experienced amputations had also lost one or both parents during the war, often leaving them with little choice but to resort to begging for survival.

While the prospect of obtaining a prosthetic limb held appeal for most of those we interviewed, their resounding message was a fervent desire for an opportunity to prove themselves. Specifically, they yearned for access to small business loans that would enable them to launch their own ventures or advance their careers. Their ultimate goal was to provide for themselves and their families independently, rather than relying on handouts for sustenance.

In essence, their aspiration is to earn a living through work, rather than relying on charity. These loans, typically unattainable through conventional banks, are commonly referred to as microlending, and Lee specializes in precisely this endeavor. These loans serve as a means for individuals to access the initial capital needed to establish small businesses, affording them a chance to be treated with the same fundamental respect and dignity as other members of society, despite the societal stigma often associated with their physical conditions.

Lee Philanthropy's central objective is to enhance the lives of these individuals by affording them the opportunity to not only better themselves but also to experience the self-worth and respect that comes with establishing a successful, self-sustaining career. Furthermore, Lee Philanthropy has launched an initiative to provide artificial limbs to selected amputees, with the overarching goal of improving their quality of life and mobility.