JOLU
Jolu: A Community of Resilience and Strength
Jolu, meaning "War" in the Mende dialect, was founded in the 1930s after its people were forced to migrate during a period of guerrilla warfare in Sierra Leone's Selenga Chiefdom. The Jolu Community bravely established a new settlement but has faced years of marginalisation, struggling with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to essential services. Today, the village is plagued by a lack of healthcare, clean water, sanitation, and education, with residents walking five miles to the nearest clinic.
Despite these challenges, the people of Jolu remain resilient, continuing to fight for a better future. Catch the Dream is committed to supporting this community by improving healthcare, education, water access, and sanitation. Through sustainable initiatives, we aim to empower the people of Jolu and provide them with the opportunity to thrive and overcome the hardships of their past.
In 2021, Catch the Dream received an invitation and conducted a primary assessment in Jolu. Acting on Joseph's recommendation, the organization initiated a program providing tools and groundnut seeds to the community. This marked the first step toward empowering the village.
During Easter 2022, the CEO personally visited Jolu to understand the community's needs better. A significant concern emerged regarding women's health, especially during pregnancy and postpartum periods, as well as menstrual health. In response, Catch the Dream distributed reusable products and engaged with Keele University's Midwifery and Women's Health department. Upon hearing of the situation an independent donor began a partnership with CTD, securing support that allowed us to supply baby packs and hospital fees for delivering mothers.
Recognizing the critical need for basic sanitation, Catch the Dream initiated efforts to address water-related health issues. The village relied on water from a contaminated stream, causing health problems. The first crucial step involved establishing a well to ensure a clean water source. Initially, tarpaulins were provided to dry crop yields, but realizing the lack of sustainability, efforts shifted towards canvassing for a dry floor. Additionally, the organization supplied rice seeds to kickstart agricultural sustainability.
In October 2022, the CEO revisited Jolu to assess the rice crop, and the community exceeded expectations with an impressive yield. However, inadequate storage posed challenges. Subsequently, the focus turned to the construction of a grain store, funded by the Dreams Come True fundraiser in July. The Three Peaks Challenge further contributed to the community by financing a rice mill.
By Easter 2023, progress was observed in the construction of the well and dry floor. Catch the Dream continued its commitment to women's health, researching and advancing initiatives in collaboration with Keele University. In October 2023, a group of students visited Jolu, generously contributing funds to support transportation for women in need of hospital services. Additionally, a project sign for Catch the Dream was installed at the Danbala junction, marking a visible acknowledgment of the organization's ongoing efforts in the village. The timeline showcases a dedicated and progressive series of initiatives, with each step contributing to the holistic improvement of life in Jolu
CURRENT PROJECTS
First aid triage
A nurse from Kenema came into the village to train a group of men and women on first aid. Your donations help to keep the first aid equipment and hygiene products stocked
Garri shelter
During the rainy season its very difficult to use the Garri machine. This year we are working on building a shelter so that the community can use the machine all year.
Click here to see how to make Garri
COMPLETED PROJECTS
Nov 2020 - Apr 2022
Toilet stalls and septic tank completed
July 2020
Garri Machine arrives in Lungi
June 2021