Children at Risk Every Day

EVERY DAY IS FILLED WITH DRAMA AND DIFFICULTY FOR ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN

“If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.” (Matthew 10:42)

In Kasungami (Labumbashi, DRC), as many as 85% of children cannot go to school, because their families cannot afford tuition, uniforms, or supplies. For those children, survival depends on finding work so that they can earn enough for food. Children transport goods (they are called “katako”), sell food, work in restaurants and homes, load and unload passenger buses, and shine shoes, or they find some sort of temporary job in exchange for food and money. Some get involved in hazardous labor, such as mining or filtering precious stones. Others get into selling alcohol and drugs, or prostitution. Still, many go hungry for days, and malnutrition is widespread, causing serious developmental issues.

Children's survival depends on their ability to find work

This situation mostly affects children who have lost one or both parents due to AIDS. Many orphans find themselves on the streets, which increases the risk of HIV transmission. Girls living on the streets (called “da mwizi”) may trade sex for money. Many are survivors of rape or multiple gang rapes.

Street children live in dirt and total insecurity. They have no access to education or health care. They are often victims of violence—beaten and kicked. Rarely do they see a doctor or get medicine for treatment of diseases such as malaria or parasitic infections.

Street children are at constant risk of abuse

Kansungami orphans and vulnerable children need someone like you who has decided to invest in the life of children in need. Your gift of $30.00/month would help us provide for school fees, clothing and supplies, tutoring, or access to a literacy program outside formal education. You’ll will also be helping us to provide medical and nutritional care, recreation, and spiritual development in a safe environment.

We work through local churches and Christian fellowships. We believe that regular correspondence, financial reports, and good accountability and transparency will assure you that your money is going to the right place and being used well. We’ll do our best as well to help you develop a real connection with the children you support through letters, pictures, and prayers. You can have confidence that you are investing in development of Christian leaders who could help to transform their communities.

Let us love our neighbors as ourselves and as we love God.