Healing Bridges

Healing Bridges is a non-profit organization that was created in 2004 by Zebiba Shekhia. This organization works with kids in Eritrea and Mozambique. Their goal is to sponsor as many children as possible (approximately 200) so that they can go to school and get a good education. Zebiba, who is from Eritrea, raises money to build schools in these poor countries and then supplies them with all the books and other supplies that are needed. Healing Bridges also grants micro credit loans to single mothers who need money to start a small business of their own. The countries that Zebiba sponsors have been fighting a civil war for over 30 years. She escaped Eritrea when she was about 12 years old with her brother who accompanied her throughout the trip. After escaping this area, she felt that she needed to help her community because she was one of the only ones who could understand their needs. Zebiba sponsors 200 kids and spends 5,000 dollars a month to feed, clothe, and educate the children. The organization's biggest challenge is getting enough money to sponsor the kids. People can help by adopting a family and raising money to help the organization through the hard times. Spending 15 dollars out of your allowance could help a child get clothing, education, and food on the table.