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GOMA EDUCATION PROJECT - DRC

BACKGROUND

The Democratic Republic of Congo

(formerly Zaire) has been in a constant

state of war and conflict for many years.

It is estimated that about five million

people have lost their lives. More than

2.5 million people are displaced. Of the

displaced people children and women

are the majority. The number of children

who were forced into military activities by

rebels is estimated at 3,500 or more.

Most of them are boys, although there

are some girls who were also enrolled

in the army. Due to the loss of parents

and frequent displacements caused by

wars and tribal conflicts, a high number

of children have had no access to education. This is true especially for orphans and children who end up on the streets where they become involved in drug abuse, prostitution, vandalism, and violence. Many girls, besides lacking opportunities for education, have been victims of molestation and rape, resulting in early pregnancies, STDs, HIV/AIDS, and unprepared early marriages. These innocent victims, whose futures are uncertain, deserve our compassion and concern. 

DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT

Through working in partnership with an indigenous organization, Shalom Transformational Ministries, we are offering 20 children in the Goma area of Eastern DRC the chance for a better future. Refuge and Hope is providing the funds to help 10 boys and 10 girls affected by the war to attend school. This project is implemented in coordination with Pastor Stephen Bamaleke of Shalom Transformational Ministries, which handles most of the logistics of this project. Refuge and Hope International has previously worked in DRC with Pastor Bamaleke in the distribution of food items in December 2008. We are helping with the selection and interview process, follow-up and progress reporting, and providing resources where we can in the areas of counseling (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in particular).

The children have been identified and selected by the Shalom Church, which already has a number of former child soldiers under its care. Gender was considered, so that boys and girls have equal opportunity, as well as the

child's ability to cope and perform in school.

Orphans also had first priority.  School fees

are supplies are paid directly to the schools

where the children are attending. Additional

medical funds are also kept aside for when

medical care is needed, as well as some

funds for supporting the host families of the

children.

DESIRED OUTCOME

For 20 children (10 boys and 10 girls) who

have been traumatized by war to have the

chance for education, life-skills training,

spiritual nurturing and discipleship in a safe

environment. The ultimate goal is for healing and life transformation (mental, physical, spiritual and emotional) for these children, so that they can cope and even thrive in their communities. Through investing in these 20 children and offering them hope, lives will be transformed, and communities will be impacted.

GET INVOLVED

For more information on how to participate in this project please contact us or make your tax-deductible donation here.

Photo by Tyler Cacek

Photo by Tyler Cacek