Democratic Republic of Congo
Empowering Women, Human Trafficking, Job Training
$33,720 Goal
For many years, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been experiencing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. More than 77% of the population lives in absolute poverty, surviving on less than $1.90 per day.
Life on the Streets
Children end up on the streets for various reasons:
- The loss of parents, often due to HIV or malaria.
- Families too poor to provide food and basic needs.
- Accusations of witchcraft, a widespread belief in Congo that leads to rejection and abuse.
Living on the streets exposes these children to violence, exploitation, addiction, and forced recruitment as child soldiers in war zones. The risk of HIV infection is also extremely high.
Girls are particularly vulnerable, frequently facing rape and sexual exploitation. Many seek refuge in local markets where they can find shelter and work, but they often become trapped in sex work and abusive situations.
Sisters Response:
The St. Mary of Matadi Sisters provide essential support to street children, offering:
- On-the-street care for approximately 35 children each week.
- A safe home for up to 56 girls, providing protection and rehabilitation.
- Efforts to reunite children with their families, whenever it is safe to do so.
Currently, an estimated 350,000 children live on the streets of DRC. Many have been orphaned, abandoned by divorced parents, or forced to flee due to accusations of witchcraft.
Our Mission: Removing Children from the Streets & Restoring Hope
Our Congregation is committed to:
✅ Rescuing children from the streets and offering them a safe place to stay.
✅ Providing skills training in sewing, arts, and sports to help them rebuild their lives.
✅ Reuniting them with their families and supporting them through reintegration.
✅ Equipping them with micro-business skills and financial assistance so they can contribute to their households
How Will Funds Be Used:
1️⃣ Rescue and rehabilitation of street children.
2️⃣ Purchase of sewing machines for vocational training.
3️⃣ Facilitation of trainers to educate and mentor the children.
4️⃣ Provision of equipment and startup supplies to help children launch small businesses upon reunification with their families.
Systemic Impact:
At least 350 children will receive training, support, and family reintegration. Through the skills they acquire, they will be able to contribute to their households, breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness.