Horrors of War Stole My Childhood

“I was a nine-year-old schoolgirl when my education was cut short by civil war in Liberia,” says Meatta.  “From then on, through my teen years, I witnessed horrific things that no child should see — killings, rapes, amputations, and more.  Many victims were my own family members and friends.

“Some of my schoolmates were kidnapped into the guerilla army — young boys as soldiers, young girls as sex slaves.  It was unimaginable.  I lived on the run and in hiding the whole time, and was fortunate the rebel army never found me.

“When the war finally ended in 2003 after 14 years, I had lost my youth —and much of my education.  Since I was almost 20, I believed that opportunity was gone forever.  While many boys and young men returned to school, most girls and young women didn’t have that chance.

The Salvation Army Changed Everything

“The Salvation Army came along and changed everything,” continues Meatta. “They gave me the opportunity to go back to school.

“As part of their efforts to help the Liberian government provide education to everyone — and to help our nation continue to heal after so much war and strife — The Salvation Army built a school near my home.  They also offer scholarships to young women and girls, because in Liberia, many families will pay educational costs for their sons, but not their daughters.  I received one of those scholarships, and now, at the age of 28, I’m on track to graduate with the education I need to live a good life.

“God bless you everyone for your generosity and compassion.  You really do make a difference, and now I have the story to show for it!  Thank you so much!”