Wilberforce Barracks is home to more than 5000 soldiers, their families, and countless civilians. Like so many other countries in West Africa, Wilberforce is ravaged by war and lacks basic living necessities. "Years of neglect and civil war left the barracks in ruins," says Sergeant John T.P. from the Sierra Leone Army, "These barracks just broke down. No water, no lights, no toilet, that's no good." (United Nations, 2006) Until 2005, the 8000 inhabitants of Wilberforce shared only 5 water taps, which saw lines of children crowded as early as 4:00 AM to get water for the day.
Pastor Joseph Koroma established the church in Wilberforce in 2000, and quickly became a safe haven to this desperate community. The church now provides assistance, guidance, and hope to 150 members. In June of 2009, disaster struck Wilberforce once again, when a falling tree destroyed their building.
Immediate effort was made to recover from this setback; however resource constraints have been a major obstacle. With Into-Africa's assistance, the building's infrastructure has been reconstructed, but the building is still lacking essentials to make it habitable
"Urgent needed items such as floor tiles, benches, a water tank, cement, ceiling board, ceiling fans, and paint are not available at the moment to complete this work." says Pastor Koroma.
The cost for the remaining repairs is approximately $15,000. Since Wilberforce's mission is significantly inhibited by their lack of a building, it is one of Into-Africa's main priorities.