COVID-19 and Compassion’s Work in Togo

An in-depth look at the coronavirus pandemic in Togo

Last Updated: 07/09/2020

While numbers of COVID-19 cases remain relatively low in Togo, they continue to rise, and every district has now reported cases of the disease. Borders are closed, public meetings of more than 15 people are banned, and schools are closed except for students taking exams. Masks are required in public. Compassion child development centers are closed.

Compassion’s partner church staff members are taking food packages to vulnerable children, monitoring the health of children and families, delivering medical funds in cases of illness, and praying continually. Staff members have been encouraged to limit face-to-face visits when possible for safety and are communicating with families via phone and video calls and local radio programming. They have been able to safely deliver 104,265 food packs and 117,574 hygiene kits to families, in addition to providing medical support to 6,831 individuals. Some church partners have been able to install hand-washing centers for community use.

A boy wearing a mask

megaphone IconA Message From Compassion Togo’s Senior Manager of Program Support

Hear from Koffi Ahonon, Senior Manager of Program Support for Compassion Togo, as he shares an update on how COVID-19 is affecting Compassion’s ministry in Togo.

Recorded: 05/31/2020

How is Compassion Currently Operating in Togo?

Below, you will find the latest information on how Compassion is currently operating in Togo, including status updates on center openings, letter delivery and gift delivery. This is the most current information we have, though it can change quickly. Please know that even if centers are closed and letters and gifts are not being delivered, your child and his or her family are being checked in on regularly by staff. We all look forward to the day we will all be able to gather together again!

Are Compassion Centers Open?

At this point, all centers in Togo are closed in order to abide by local guidelines. Staff members are still calling and checking in on families, and in some communities they are able to visit children while obeying social distancing guidelines. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute 104,265 food packs and 117,574 hygiene kits to children and their families!

A boy in a mask holds food supplies

child reading IconStory From the Field

In Togo, the COVID-19 pandemic means many families have lost their income and are no longer able to provide food for their children.

Already vulnerable, many have been plunged into desperation as inflation drives up food prices. To combat the crisis, Compassion's church partners have mobilized food kits containing essential supplies to support children and their families.

"The center helps the most vulnerable families by donating food and nonfood items," says Mr. Vignon, director of a center northeast of Lomé.

Twelve-year-old Olivier's parents make their living as sellers in the market. Since the pandemic began, customers have been scarce. His mother, Méhawoé, says the parcels have restored hope to her family.

"Since the beginning of this COVID-19 pandemic, we are sad, and our hearts are full of bitterness," she says. "We thank God that we have received help from Compassion. These distributions have impacted my family. I can say with joy that these kits have brought joy back to my family."

How can I pray for Togo?

This month, will you join us in praying for Togo’s continued efforts to battle the coronavirus? You can also visit Compassion’s COVID-19 prayer page for weekly global prayer guides.

How Can I Help?

Sponsor a Child in Togo
Give to Compassion’s COVID-19 Relief Fund
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