By Alfred Koroma
Photo of children, parents and staff at TDF Office in Waterloo
On Christmas Eve 2024, the Thomas Disabled Foundation (TDF) donated hundreds of Leones to brighten the holiday season for children with disabilities in Waterloo.
That act of generosity was the latest in a series of engagements by the foundation targeted at uplifting the lives of these young individuals.
Over the years, TDF has consistently provided cash, food, school materials, clothing, and moral support to children with disabilities and their families. These contributions are made during festive seasons, the Ramadan period, and at the start of each academic year, reflecting the foundation’s holistic approach to care and empowerment.
TDF, which recently marked its fifth anniversary, is solely funded by its CEO and Founder, Madam Christiana Thomas, a Sierra Leonean based in the UK. Since its establishment on December 31, 2019, the foundation has offered remarkable charitable support to more than fifty registered children with disabilities.
Madam Christiana’s journey to philanthropy is deeply personal. Before relocating to the UK, she grew up as an orphan at SOS Children’s Village in Sierra Leone. Her challenging childhood experiences fueled her desire to give back to society, with a particular focus on supporting less privileged children with disabilities.
“I was a less financed child, and I know what it means when children go to school without the same opportunities as others,” she shared in a phone interview with Concord Times. “It felt like a dream. One day, I woke up with the urge that it was time for me to give back. That’s when I started with the little I had, establishing the Thomas Disabled Foundation.”
Madam Christiana’s story – from an orphaned child to a philanthropist and advocate for inclusion is a testament to the power of resilience, education, and compassion. Her work inspires countless young people to overcome obstacles and strive for their dreams.
“I believe that every child deserves an education, regardless of their physical or mental challenges,” she affirmed. “My goal is to eliminate barriers and create opportunities for every child to succeed.”
Looking ahead, Madam Christiana remains steadfast in her mission. “This is just the beginning. My commitment to empowering disabled children remains unwavering,” she said, revealing plans to build and donate a home to support the parents of disabled children in the foundation.
Through TDF’s initiatives and Madam Christiana’s inspiring leadership, the foundation continues to give hope to children with disabilities, ensuring they receive the support and opportunities they deserve.
