Empowering Namibia's Daughters: WEM's Impactful Partnership with Carissa Charity Care

10 October 2024

In the heart of Windhoek, Namibia, a beacon of hope shines brightly for young girls facing learning barriers and extreme poverty. The Carissa Charity Care, established in 2022 by Anne & Faan Oosthuizen, has been making remarkable strides in transforming lives at the Eros Girls’ School (EGS). Today, we at World Extreme Medicine (WEM) are proud to share the story of our partnership with this noble cause built upon a three-decade presence in Namibia and the significant impact we’ve had together.

A Legacy of Compassion

Named after Anne’s late daughter Carissa who sadly passed away aged 12, had a passion for helping those in need, the charity addresses the material and emotional needs of students at EGS. These girls, many from single-parent households or rural areas, face challenges that extend far beyond the classroom. When we learned about Anne’s vision, we knew it aligned perfectly with our mission to make a difference in challenging environments.

Our Contribution: A Growing Commitment

Since 2021, our support has been instrumental in funding various aspects of the charity’s work. Here’s a breakdown of our contributions over the years:

  • 2021: £1,254.07 (Leadership Camp)
  • 2022: £6,261.94 (Stationery and General Donations)
  • 2023-2024: £15,485.00 (General Donation)
  • March 2024: £7,725.00 (First instalment of the year’s donation)

Total Contribution to Date: £30,726.01

These funds have been allocated to various critical areas:

Educational Essentials: Stationery and learning aids, ensuring girls have the tools they need to succeed.

Dignity in Uniforms: School uniforms, shoes, and bags, allowing girls to attend school with pride.

Nourishment for Body and Mind: Feeding schemes providing daily meals to girls in need.

Health and Hygiene: Toiletries and sanitary products, supporting the dignity and well-being of girls monthly.

Knowledge is Power: Library books opening worlds of imagination and learning.

Leadership Development: Leadership camps for the Learners’ Representative Council, nurturing tomorrow’s leaders.

Bridging Distances: Mobility support ensuring girls can safely reach school regardless of distance.

Beyond the Numbers: Real Impact

For us at WEM, these figures represent more than just financial support. They represent:

– 42 girls graduating from Pre-Vocational and Vocational Training programs

– Daily meals for students who might otherwise go hungry

– The chance for girls to attend school with dignity, wearing proper uniforms

– Access to essential hygiene products, supporting health and self-esteem

– Opportunities for leadership development and personal growth

Looking Ahead: Exciting News on the Horizon

As we reflect on our partnership with Carissa Charity Care, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement for the future. We’re thrilled to share that we’ll soon be officially announcing the World Extreme Medicine Fund (WEMF)! This new initiative promises to expand our capacity to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

To stay informed about this exciting development and learn how you can be part of this transformative journey, we encourage you to sign up for our newsletter. By subscribing, you’ll be among the first to receive updates about WEMF, its mission, and the various ways you can contribute to causes like Carissa Charity Care.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

As we move forward, we remain committed to our mission, inspired by the legacy of Carissa and empowered by the incredible work of Anne and her team. Together, we’re not just changing lives; we’re shaping a better tomorrow for Namibia’s daughters and communities around the world.


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