Empowering futures through education
Supporting Ethiopian Students and families since 1985.
The Ethiopian Students Assistance Fund (ESAF) is a UK‑based non‑profit community fund founded in 1985 by Father Colin Battell. ESAF grew out of his pastoral and humanitarian work with Ethiopian children and families during and after the famine years.
Father Colin lived and served in Ethiopia for 15 years, becoming a well‑known figure in early UK–Ethiopia charitable work. He is also the founder of Partners for Change Ethiopia (PFC Ethiopia).
ESAF was created alongside that mission to provide small‑scale, personalised support to individuals known directly to us — focusing on education, essential household needs, and family welfare delivered through trust, continuity, and long‑standing community relationships.
Click 'Learn more about our mission' and
Download our one‑page ESAF Governance Overview.
Making a difference, one life at a time
At ESAF, we pride ourselves on our direct and accountable support. Our commitment extends to providing crucial assistance in three core areas: quality education to unlock potential, essential household provisions for stability, and vital family welfare support to foster resilience. Explore how our dedication transforms lives and empowers communities in Ethiopia.
Our programmes
We offer a range of targeted programmes tailored to meet the specific needs of Ethiopian students and families. Our approach is focused on understanding and responding to their most pressing requirements, providing effective and practical solutions that build a brighter future.
Education support
While government schools are free in Ethiopia, we provide more access to schooling, private college grants in Ethiopia or even abroad, books, and essential learning materials for students in need.
Household essentials
Supplying families with basic necessities like food, clothing, and shelter support for stability for their children including school uniforms.
Family welfare
Offering support to strengthen family units and ensure a nurturing environment for children.
Our journey, your impact
The Ethiopian Students Assistance Fund began in 1985 with a simple yet profound idea by Father Colin Battell, fueled by his deep passion for humanitarian work during and after the Ethiopian famine. As a dedicated non-profit, we pride ourselves on personal attention and a commitment to direct, accountable support. Our approach is rooted in the values of quality and integrity, ensuring that every action reflects our mission to empower Ethiopian children and families.
Stories of hope and resilience
Every life touched by ESAF is a testament to the power of compassion and direct support. We invite you to explore the inspiring journeys of students and families whose futures have been transformed through education, essential aid, and unwavering care. Your support makes these stories possible.
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The support I received from ESAF transformed my life. With Fr. Colin's steadfast dedication to education, I was fortunate enough to be sponsored to study in the UK, where I was able to settle down and build a fulfilling life with my family. Today, I am slowly but proudly started to serve as the second Trustee of ESAF alongside Fr. Colin.
Natnael Bekele
Direct qoute ' I am very happy that my boy Amanuel passed to grade 8th with excellent results. I am always grateful for all you have done to us. God bless you!! This is just to inform you I got my boy registered in this summer tutor class at CATHEDRAL SCHOOL to assist him in the national Exam. I have even attached his Certificate to you because It IS BY YOUR SUPPORT we got this success.
God bless you!!
Amanuel parents in Addis Ababa.
"ESAF's help with household essentials has brought immense relief to my family and our children, donation we get as they can to support us with daily expenses and education for our children. Their care extends beyond just students, supporting our entire well-being."
Shemelse T
"Knowing that there's a community fund like ESAF looking out for us gives me so much hope. Their direct support is truly making a difference in Ethiopia and to us as family with health issues and children to supoprt"
The Ethiopian Students Assistance Fund
St. Benedict's Monastery in Bamber Bridge
Duddle Lane, Preston, PR5 6US, EnglandUnited Kingdom
Marta T.