How are PBF’s donations being used in Ethiopia/Lalibela today?
At the last meeting of the Foundation Board at the beginning of November, one of our local representatives, Getachew Sale, joined us to report on the use of the donations in Lalibela. Here is his abridged report:
Ethiopia is currently experiencing very high price inflation. The government has focused on buying weapons and drones to destroy its own population. Violence and devastation in the Amhara region and the Tigray region clearly show this. Imports and exports are out of balance as a result. The country is struggling with a dollar shortage. The Ethiopian Birr (ETB) has lost considerable value and the cost of living for the population is rising daily. Conditions for the poorest of the poor and our students are becoming increasingly difficult. It is increasingly almost hopeless to afford basic needs and access to essential services.
In this uncertain economic environment, PBF’s support offers a great contribution to the financial stability of the poorest of the poor as well as for students.
Each month we are able to provide the following support to people who are completely destitute:
- 250 sick and disabled people receive 600 Birr (11 USD) .
- 35 students are at private or state universities. They are supported with 1100-1600 ETB (20-30 USD) per month.
- Two severely disabled university students, Mohammed and Bimrew, receive 10,000 ETB (190 USD).
We pay for health insurance of ETB 550 (USD 10) per year for needy families (per household).
Small businesses receive 80,000 ETB (1500 USD) as start-up capital.
PBF managers (4) are paid a monthly salary of 14,000 ETB (250 USD) (in comparison, teachers earn 190 to 300 USD, doctors 210 to 400 USD). Our responsible trustees cover the expenses for family and household (1 liter of oil costs 2-3 USD!)
PBF sometimes only covers part of the costs and always expects a personal contribution. The specific requirements and priorities are carefully examined to ensure effective aid. The individual target groups are now clearly defined. Wherever possible, our help should be sustainable and meaningful – in the spirit of PBF: helping people to help themselves.
Our underprivileged and marginalized people are grateful to all donors.
Zenaakutoleabye Getachew