OUR Mission
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." Prov. 31:8-9
Having lived and worked in West Africa for over 13 years, the founders of Keyara's Gift, Kreig and Karen Ecklund are well aware of the many needs. While in Liberia adopting their daughter, Keyara, they experienced U.S. Immigration challenges that kept them in the Country for 2 years longer than expected. During that time they came face to face with the overwhelming needs within the community they lived. People were sick, hungry and uneducated. In response, they chose to help feed the hungry, heal the sick (with medicine) and love those that came to their door.
They returned to California in 2009 and since then have continued to help those left behind in Liberia. They desire to continue helping those in need but know they can't do it alone. By founding Keyara's Gift, they hope many more individuals will have the joy of partnering with them to see lives changed and transformed through education, healthcare, and other basic needs!
Access to Healthcare
On a case by case basis, Keyara's Gift will pay the healthcare costs for those who have no other way to receive care.
Diagnosis and treatment of malaria or typhoid costs about $15 but may still be out of reach for many in Liberia. The health system in Liberia requires full payment prior to receiving services. These diseases have simple and effective treatments, but if diagnosis and treatment are delayed, they can become very serious and even a cause for death.
A hernia may keep the breadwinner of the family from working and force our sponsored students to sell small goods on the street to put food on the table. This can be prevented with a $300 hernia repair surgery.
Access to Education
Getting an education in Liberia is not an easy thing! The total cost per year averages about $425 per student. With a gross national income (GNI) per capita of $580, saving for school fees is an impossible task for most Liberian families. Keyara's Gift identifies students that could otherwise not attend school. Our Liberian staff pay their school fees, purchase and distribute school supplies and uniforms. On going monitoring programs ensure students are benefitting from their newfound access to education.
Access to Other Basic Needs
There are other pressing needs in Liberia, such as housing and clean water. Sometimes when these basic needs go unmet, our sponsored students cannot attend school. Meeting these needs keeps them in school and provides hope for the whole community.