Our Mission

The mission of the Firelight Foundation is to improve the well-being of children affected by HIV/AIDS and poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa.

We know that one of the best ways to change vulnerable children’s lives is by supporting the local grassroots organizations serving children and families.

What’s different about our model is that we fund these community-based organizations directly to ensure that every dollar is fully leveraged to benefit those who need it the most. We work closely with grassroots groups to help them create sustainable solutions to the challenges their communities face.

OUR APPROACH

Firelight’s approach to grantmaking is:

Child-centered. Family-focused. Community-based.

our-approach-image01We believe that grassroots programs arising in direct response to children’s and families’ needs within the local community are often the most effective.

Although local communities are the greatest source of support to children and families affected by HIV/AIDS and poverty, far too little donor funding is directed to the grassroots level.

Firelight seeks to address this gap by providing small grants directly to community-based organizations (CBOs) that are effectively responding to the needs of vulnerable children.

OUR VISION

  • Every child, regardless of race, creed, country, or other factor is raised in a supportive family and community, in a safe environment, with adequate food, shelter, and healthcare, and a sound education.
  • Children’s rights are recognized, protected, and upheld, as an integral part of human rights.
  • The strengths of children and families are recognized and their voices are valued and heard.
  • Community solidarity—one of Africa’s strengths and assets—is widely recognized as vital to efforts to improve children’s well-being in Sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Communities take action to address issues that affect vulnerable children and families.
  • There is a widespread belief and corresponding investment in community-based organizations as a strong and growing facet of civil society.
  • Governments, donors, nongovernmental organizations, community-based organizations, communities, and individuals work together to guarantee children’s sustained quality of life.
  • There is global awareness and effective action to address the severe impact of HIV/AIDS and poverty on Africa’s children.