A Nonprofit Organization
HOPE FOR DESPERATE HEARTS
OUR NEW INITIATIVES
The Baïta Barro Memorial Fund
Baïta Barro (January 18, 1973 - August 2, 2024) was a dedicated board member of Hope for Desperate Hearts in Burkina Faso. She dearly loved and tirelessly advocated for the disadvantaged. To honor Baïta’s memory, Hope for Desperate Hearts has created the Baïta Barro Memorial Fund. The Baïta Barro Memorial Fund supports two educational causes that were important to her. With a smile from above, Baita Barro, a lifelong educator, would be thrilled to know of these initiatives in her honor, thanks to your generosity.
The Baïta Barro Scholarship
This scholarship fund honors Baïta Barro’s vision for girls with disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education in Burkina Faso. The scholarship enables students in need of financial assistance who are committed to academic excellence to receive a college education.
The Baïta Barro Annual Backpack Drive for Burkina Faso’s School Children
As an elementary school teacher, Baïta Barro especially enjoyed Hope for Desperate Hearts’ Back-To-School activities. Every year she asked us to remember Burkina Faso students in need of backpacks. Started 2025-2026 school year, Hope for Desperate Hearts provides backpacks to students throughout Burkina Faso during back to school season, in remembrance of Baïta Barro's passion for education.
Chicken Distribution
Through this new initiative, in 2025, 100 chickens were distributed to 20 stay-at-home women. Each woman received 5 chickens (4 hens and 1 rooster), which will provide both eggs and an opportunity to generate income through sales in the local market.
Your contributions make the work that we do possible. Make your tax deductible gift today.
There are many ways to get involved, from hosting a clothing or supplies drive, to sharing the word about our work with friends and family. Reach out to us today to get involved!
Hope For Desperate Hearts is dedicated to improving the quality of life for the wider African community in New York, and the living conditions of disadvantaged populations throughout Burkina Faso.