Delivering hope through our global network
Thin Green Line continues to reach more Fallen Ranger families each year.
Emergency relief is a fundamental aspect of Thin Green Line’s mission. Nothing can compensate for the death of a loved one, but during such a difficult time the Fallen Ranger Fund provides an important financial lifeline when material support is often lacking.
We’re very fortunate to have regular supporters enabling us to provide emergency assistance. We also rely on conservation partners around the world to coordinate the detailed information needed to ensure those funds reach families in remote locations.
Nashipai, pictured here with her three sons at their school in Longido, Tanzania, started a local retail business.
According to Sean Willmore, TGLF’s founder and director, delivering that support directly and urgently is not straightforward.
“Assisting each case involves people across the globe coordinating details to support each family,” said Sean.
“The families of fallen rangers often live in remote areas with limited access to services in their own country, let alone avenues to international aid.”
Game Rangers International (Zambia), Freeland (Thailand), and Wildlife Trust of India, are just a few of the agencies Thin Green Line collaborates with, to reach families of Fallen Rangers with urgent financial support.
With contacts in over 25 countries, Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA) liaise directly with the colleagues of fallen rangers to facilitate help for the families. Part of the International Ranger Federation, GRAA have made it possible to reach many families who would otherwise be left without any hope for a new future.
“Working with GRAA and other in-country organisations, we can navigate language and cultural aspects and deliver assistance without long delays,” Sean said.
Last year, Thin Green Line provided financial assistance to over half the families of Fallen Rangers recorded by the International Ranger Federation. We collaborate closely with our partner Thin Green Line UK to extend support to as many cases as we can.
With support from the Fallen Ranger fund, Stella Buzazi set up a tailoring and embroidery business in her village in Tanzania.
Reports from our partners have provided insights into how effective the support can be. Consulting with families to identify the best use of support has led to viable futures for widows – livelihoods that a family can depend on.
A small land holding to grow enough for their needs with some extra to sell, or cattle, goats and sheep; these are a sound investment for many families. Some ladies have set up a market stall or a small shop, hairdressing or dressmaking services.
“School and education costs are always a priority,” said Sean. “Typically Fallen Ranger families have two or three school-age children.”
Education is often free for young children, but families need to pay for children in senior secondary years; children in regional areas often need to leave home to attend secondary school.
The messages of thanks from families of fallen rangers to Thin Green Line convey a sense of hope.
“We’re shining that light of hope when we deliver assistance”, said Sean.
“We can’t do that without a trusted network of dedicated people working in allied organisations around the world. Collaboration is critical to outcomes in conservation.”
Fallen Rangers are recognised on the annual Roll of Honour released ahead of World Ranger Day.
Click the link below today to contribute to our Fallen Ranger fund.
Related stories
Share this
Want to support rangers on the frontline of conservation?
