All for One Share's Ruth's Story

ALPHARETTA, Ga. - March 17, 2022 - PRLog -- All For One Foundation's (AFO), Childhood Prosperity Center (CPC) in Freetown, Sierra Leone Director, Katie Milazzo recently shared the all too familiar story of a teenage mother's plight and how All For One was able to offer her Help Beyond Hope.

"I have been given a better chance in life, and I'm not going to waste it," says 17-year-old Ruth, a teen mom who was taken in by All for One Foundation's Child Prosperity Center in Sierra Leone.

At age 16, Ruth found herself pregnant and alone. "My family could not accept my pregnancy." This is common for girls before the age of 18 in Sierra Leone. The culture surrounding teen pregnancies is incredibly difficult, often leaving them alone and unsupported.

Ruth came to AFO's, CPC when she was three months pregnant, "I walked up to ask for help because I didn't have any other person to turn to and ever since then, I have never regretted my action."  She had malaria, among other illnesses, which is especially dangerous during a pregnancy. AFO's goal is to assist Ruth in achieving independence while also helping her rebuild a relationship with her family. We believe in the power of repairing relationships to break the cycle of poverty and strengthen communities.

Ruth's baby is now two months old and thriving. Ruth says she is living a healthy and stable life. "Life is okay now. I have food, and my son is receiving the best care possible. I'm home now! I enjoy helping around the Center in any way I can."

Ruth's dream is to become a flight attendant. "I know I will get there with the support and encouragement from the foundation" she says. Ruth is a very brave young girl and is working to return to school soon. Thanks to our generous donors, Ruth has the freedom to dream now, and according to Director Milazzo, "We are so incredibly proud of not only what she has overcome, but of the young woman she is becoming and of what we are able to do for both of them."

With the help of All For One's Case Manager, Ruth has regained contact with her family. "My mom visits me often now, and I'm in touch with my family. I can't wish for anything else. I have been given a better chance in life and I'm not going to waste it" she says.

All For One, http://allforone.org offering Help Beyond Hope to a teenage mother and her child in Sierra Leone.