Who we are

Christian Hands-on Women and Children in Need (CHOWCHIN) is a faith-led charity rooted in love, compassion and action. Although we are Christian based, we are open to helping people of all faiths. We are driven by the belief that when women and children are supported, whole communities are transformed.

We focus on promoting gender equality and upholding the rights of the most vulnerable—especially children and widows—through practical support, education, and Christian values.

Christian Hands-on Women and Children in Need (CHOWCHIN) is a faith-led charity rooted in love, compassion and action. Although we are Christian based, we are open to helping people of all faiths. We are driven by the belief that when women and children are supported, whole communities are transformed.

We focus on promoting gender equality and upholding the rights of the most vulnerable—especially children and widows—through practical support, education, and Christian values.

Our Aspiration

To see Sierra Leone thrive through the empowerment of its women and children. We long for a future where rights are respected, opportunities are shared, and no one is left behind.

Our Mission

To work hand in hand with local communities, stakeholders and the government to protect and uplift women and children. amplifying their voices and enabling them to change their own lives and the future of our nation. We want to advance Gender Equality and Women’s Rights and combat child labour.

Our Vision

A just, caring society where every child and every woman—no matter their background—has the tools, support and love they need to grow, thrive and lead.

For Children

We provide access to education and a chance at a better life by offering:

  • Scholarships, school bags, books, uniforms, and supplies

  • Weekend study groups and English language support

  • Programmes to reduce child labour through education

  • Leisure and play: football, puzzles, toys, children’s films

For Vulnerable Women

We equip women—especially widows and those in rural communities—with the skills and confidence to build a better future. This includes:

  • Training in agriculture and access to fertilisers

  • Life skills like soap-making

  • Entrepreneurship grants and support to start small businesses

  • Sharing the word of God and building faith-based sisterhoods

Our Work in Madeh (Mal Conteh Chiefdom)

In the remote village of Madeh, Port Loko District, we’ve taken over a once-abandoned school that now supports 8 surrounding villages. The community had kept it alive, with two local farmers acting as teachers. The children—many walking miles to attend—spoke only their native tongue, with no exposure to English or even Krio.

When the city council told us this place had been forgotten, we knew we had to act. With limited roads and difficult access, it hasn’t been easy—but we’re committed. We’ve already awarded 100 scholarships (chosen via raffle due to high demand and limited funds) and currently serve 480 students.

This is only the beginning. We hope to grow the school, improve teacher support, and eventually expand into neighbouring villages.

Learn more

Interested in teaching or volunteering in Madeh between September 2026 – March 2027?
Full details on lodging and support will be shared by April 2026.

Join The Waitlist

How to Get Involved

If you’d like to donate books, bags, computers or contribute financially, we welcome your support.

Donate

Contact us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!