$6,000 Gift Supports Students in Senegal: A Testament to Global Partnership

As the school year began in Fatick, Senegal, we received word from President Latyr of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Senegal (ELS): 177 students were expected to arrive, with a few more likely to join late. For each child, a full set of books costs about $25—but with currency fluctuations, we rounded to $30 to ensure full coverage.

Thanks to your generosity and the leadership of our Global Engagement Team (GET), our synod sent $6,000 to support these students and their families. This gift represents both congregational donations and a special contribution from the GET, enabling the purchase of books for all 180 students.

In Senegal, students must supply their own workbooks and textbooks, which cannot be reused or handed down. These books are often written in directly and updated yearly. For many families, this is a steep financial barrier. But together, we helped lift that burden.

This act of global solidarity reflects our Lutheran calling to walk alongside our siblings in Christ, across distance and culture, as companions in ministry and hope. Beyond the books, any remaining funds will go toward teacher handbooks, classroom supplies, and much-needed school repairs or expansions.

We celebrate this moment—but the work continues. The Global Engagement Team welcomes your ongoing support as we build long-term relationships with the ELS and continue to uplift the vital work happening in Fatick.

To learn more or connect with our Global Engagement Team, contact Cheryl Jones at 480-620-8126.

“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” —Matthew 25:35

Together, we embody the church’s global mission—one student, one book, one relationship at a time.