Empowering Lives in Cape Maclear, Malawi
During her second solo trip to Africa in 2019, founder Ilia Carson-Letelier visited Lake Malawi and met Kim Often Chadza, a young man who had been accepted to college but could not afford tuition or transportation. Ilia offered to sponsor his education along with 9 other students, beginning her long-term commitment to helping students in the community.
When Ilia returned to Malawi in 2023 for Kim’s graduation, she found Cape Maclear struggling after the pandemic and the effects of Cyclone Freddy. Tourism had declined, many families had been displaced and local resources were stretched thin. Ilia and Kim purchased land and started Chipatso to support vulnerable families and create new opportunities within the community.
What began as a small local project quickly gained international support through social media, with people around the world helping sponsor children and community programs. Today, Chipatso supports nearly 60 learners through education and nutrition initiatives. It has expanded to include the Knighting Nutrition Center, the Nelson Recycling Center, Chipatso Supermarket and the Hilden Bakery.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported this journey and excited for the future ahead. Zikomo — thank you.
Our Location
Located in Cape Maclear, Malawi, we support single mothers, vunerable children and orphans through education, nutrition, housing and job opportunities.
Address
Cape Maclear, Mangochi District, Malawi
There is no post office here or physical addresses. We are located between the lake/village and the Billy Riordan Medical Center.
Hours: 24/7
"As a volunteer who has visited Chipatso twice I can't tell you how much I've enjoyed the time I've spent here. The children are so much fun to work with and everyone is so friendly"
Laura P.
★★★★★