Donations

The rainy season of 2009 took a heavy toll on the local houses. Many collapsed because the earth was so soggy that the water was drawn into the walls from the ground up. The walls are made of Banco-stones, an unbaked loam type of stone. These absorb water easily and fast which resulted in the houses sagging like a bad pudding..

Five layers of cement stones

The solution is very simple. If the first five layers of stone are replaced by cemented stones the water cannot be absorbed into the walls and the houses will be safe. The cement that is needed for such a project is way above the financial possibilities of the people who live here.

Not expensive and yet way out of reach

200 to 300 stones are needed for each of the homes. This amounts to 14 to 20 bags of cement, at €7,50 plus a total of €30,- euros worth of sand.

This brings the total amount needed per house at €135,- to €180,- euro. For the people in Abéné who do have a job, this adds up to four to six months of their income.

Re-used corrugated sheets

The roofs of the houses are made of corrugated sheets. Sadly not all of the sheets can be reused. This is why we also use donation money to buy new roofing. This costs another €280,- euro per house.

Every little bit counts

The foundation has already received a very nice number of donations!

Our online newsletter reports on what has already been accomplished with this money. We intend to translate the newsletters into English so non-Dutch citizens can read about the progress as well!

Donations so far

A big 'thank you' on behalf of the Abéné community goes to: