WHY VISITING YOUR SPONSORED CHILD IN THE GAMBIA?
The trust of the sponsors is the main principle and Charity Pearl team is always trying to work transparently and fair. We are giving opportunities to the sponsors, who donate the monthly contributions, to visit the children in the Gambia. We want that the children, their families, and the sponsors meet and establish a contact. We want the sponsors to see the conditions the families live in and that the money truly finds its way into the hands of the parents each month without intermediaries.
WE LIVE AND WORK WITH THE CHILDREN
We are always present at the location, and we visit the children and families frequently. Before we included them into the program of sponsorship, we are thoroughly convinced ourselves of their living conditions. We are aware that we need to be physically present, because this is the only way we can monitor the actual situation and thus ensure that the money is used exclusively for helping the children and families. With that we ensure the safety of funds donated.
YOU ARE A GUEST IN THE GAMBIA
You must never forget that you are a guest in the country you are visiting, which means that it is necessary to help out where you are assigned and in a manner we ask/advise you to. Principles of the association were made in accordance to this, and they need to be respected, as the safety of the families, children, and yourself is at stake. We are familiar with the local conditions and customs, the locals and local community knows us, and in connection, the collaboration and mutual understanding between us and the locals is a key factor. Their habits, cultural and religious traditions cannot be changed. As guests, we have to adapt and try to help in the most appropriate manner.
In addition to being healthy, there are a few other important characteristics: adaptability, patience, handiwork, independence, flexibility, resourcefulness, responsibility, sense of humour… All these traits can be a valuable help to overcoming the cultural shock everybody needs to get through, no matter how experienced traveller you may be.
LOCAL CHARITY ORGANIZATION
Charity Pearl The Gambia plays an important role in coordinating the work and carrying out many functions, such as identifying and determining the type of aid, and developing projects that benefit local communities. In the Gambia, representatives of the organization are there to guide you and be present when you visit the families or do other desired activities. They know all the families personally and it is expected that you show the same amount of respect as the families show to you. It is important that you follow the safety instructions and that you discuss any measures you might want to take, as you can unconsciously do more damage than good. We believe that you will not choose to visit with an intent to hurt anybody.
WHEN AND FOR HOW LONG YOU WILL BE VISITING
The dates depend on what exactly do you expect from the trip, and what are your conditions for travelling. It is important to take into account the school holidays and public holidays, which influenced the presence of children at home (some go on holiday to see their grandparents or their parents).
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, and if you decide to get other treatments, the time of preparation extends slightly. To visit the Gambia you might need a visa. For more information about visas please read the information about The Gambia.
Gambia is a destination that you can visit all year round. Plan your travel time depending on the activities that interest you, and let them be a priority. If the only purpose of your trip is to visit or volunteer, check the dates available. You can find cheapest airline tickets in April and May (and early June) when the first rainy season starts. If you do not mind the rain, you can go in the trip anytime, and if you need help deciding, you can also contact us.
WHERE ARE WE AND HOW TO FIND US
Our office is located in Serekunda. Serekunda (Serrekunds, or Sere Kunda) is the biggest city in Gambia. It lies southwest of Banjul. In 2006, the population was estimated at 340,000. Although the capital city of Gambia is Banjul, the development is centralized in Serekunda, as Banjul lies on an island and therefore cannot expand.
Check your travel agency for reasonable priced airplane tickets or contact us. We can also help you in finding cheap flight to The Gambia.
At the airport in Banjul, we are there to pick you up. For transportation from the airport, we offer the best rates.
ACCOMMODATIONS DURING YOUR STAY IN GAMBIA
The Gambia offers wide choice of accommodation. Volunteers usually stay in self-catering apartment which are located in a safe area. Living conditions are up to the standard. By staying in a good conditioned apartments, you will also avoid a large number of insects, cockroaches and various insects, which can potentially be dangerous. Complete prevention is not possible but hygiene and safety is on a much higher level in these areas. There is 20-24 hours of electricity, wi-fi and water access in a priority such areas, compared to other poorer and less acceptable areas.
For more information contact us at info@treasuresofwestafrica.com