WE-CARE Foundation

Story Hour for Kids is a literacy program designed to help primary school children improve their reading skills in preparation for the next academic level. It primarily targets students who are on break from school and provides them with a structured learning environment. The program is facilitated by some WE-CARE Staff and other volunteers who are trained by WE-CARE to teach reading and engage children in meaningful literacy activities.

When does it happen?
The program runs annually from July to August, specifically on Saturdays—a time when most schools in Liberia are on their long vacation. During this break, many children stay home unsupervised, often with little to do. Story Hour for Kids provides a safe and educational space for them to stay engaged during this idle period.

Where does it take place?
The program is conducted in economically challenged and slum communities across Liberia. Some of these include West Point, Chugbor (Old Road), and New Kru Town in Monrovia. These areas are among the poorest in Liberia, where many children are otherwise left to roam the streets or help their parents with petty trading.

Who does it benefit?
The program serves both boys and girls in primary school, including children entering kindergarten. It specifically targets children from low-income families who cannot afford vacation school or summer camp. These children often lack structured activities and supervision during school breaks, which puts them at risk of falling behind academically or getting involved in harmful activities.

How do we do it?
• We provide snacks to keep the children nourished and engaged.
• We teach them how to read using age-appropriate materials and methods.
• The program has consistently reached over 1,000 children every vacation season.

What is the impact?
Over the past 30 years, Story Hour for Kids has reached more than 30,000 children across Liberia. It has also trained hundreds of community volunteers, equipping them with the values of service, compassion, and fraternity. These volunteers learn that making a difference doesn't require wealth—just a commitment to give back with love and empathy.