by Priscilla Legay Jaiah * 

Assignment in Ghana has given me opportunity to work in a Liberian refugee camp located five miles outside Accra. It is an experience I cherish. Among the many programs held for youth was one that exposed them to the effects of drugs on people. The students were divided into three groups and were able to visit the psychiatric hospital where they were allowed to tour the wards of children and adults and see how abuse of drugs has resulted in physical and mental illnesses. 

Adults told them how they became addicted to drugs and how it not only damaged their lives but lives of innocent children. The students were deeply moved by the testimony they heard. They also had concerns about the deplorable conditions of the hospital. One group of students decided that they wanted to take on a fund-raising project for the hospital as a special ministry. They collected used clothing and toys to sell and earned money which they have contributed to the hospital for children. The students have decided to make this an ongoing ministry. 

More than 300 young people have been trained as peer counselors to educate and create awareness among other young adults in the fight against drugs in junior and senior secondary schools; and there are drug-free clubs in three Methodist secondary schools: Ernest Brace, Calvary, and Kaneshine 

Thanks to support from United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), we were able to complete the Palavar Hut at the Buduburam Refugee Camp. It is used a skill-training center for women, youth and children. Contributions from the Women's Division helped establish a skill program in tie & dye for girls and women. Church School classes are conducted in the Palavar Hut on Sundays. 

Thank you for being in ministry with and for these young refugees. Our many accomplishments would not have been possible without your support. We look toward the future with greater work ahead of us including:student scholarship support; computer training classes, building of schools; and clinics to meet the health needs of refugees.