ST. LOUIS, MO: November 5, 2009 — Supporters of Missouri-based Microfinancing Partners in Africa (MPA) are always coming up with innovative ways to raise funds for the organization, but one of the most amazing projects was put together by a 10-year-old girl. Claire Maher of St. Louis has written and published a children’s book with half of the royalties benefiting MPA, a non-profit organization that provides micro business loans in Uganda and Kenya.

The idea for Claire’s venture, “Puff’s Island Escape,” came earlier this year when the librarian at Incarnate Word Cathcolic Elementary School organized a story-writing contest.  Judges awarded Claire well-written work to be displayed in the school library and her idea grew from there.

Puff’s Island Escape is a colorfully-illustrated adventure paperback short-story with a positive message.  The book is selling for $10.95, and can be purchased through KidPub Press by calling 1-800-252-5224 or by visiting the online bookstore.

This is not the first time that Claire and her family have donated to MPA.  Last year Claire and her 8-year-old sister, Hannah, collected coins and hand-delivered them to MPA’s founder and director, Sister Toni Temporiti, for her to take on her 2008 trip to Africa.

MPA loans help men and women to start small business.  Even loans as small as $20 can bring a business into full production.  Realistic financing terms, comprehensive training and the development of a community-based support network results in a very high percentage of on-time repayments.  Ultimately, these thriving business communities provide the economic foundation for community development project, including schools, health centers and power sources.

In addition to Claire’s book proceeds, MPA recently collected $11,000 from the organization’s October Fast for Africa.  Held in conjunction with the United Nation’s World Food Day, fast participants enlisted sponsors to make a donation in support of their fasting.  MPA expects to reach its 2009 goal of raising $150,000.

For more on MPA, visit its website at www.microfinancingafrica.org.

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Microfinancing Partners in Africa is a 501c(3) that provides grants for the strengthening and expansion of microfinancing programs.  The resources are used to empower Africa’s most destitute individuals to lift themselves out of poverty with dignity through access to financial services and education.  MPA and its supporters seek to completely eradicate extreme poverty in Africa to allow every person their fundamental right to direct their own future. More information can be obtained on their website or by contacting Sister Toni Temporiti at 314-776-1319 or mpainformation@gmail.com.

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