Help Internally Displaced Children in the DR Congo

Just one week after its grand opening in 2019, the Mama Shujaa School Complex, built by Hero Women Rising to provide greater access to education in rural Congo, was overrun by rebel militia. They destroyed everything, burning down surrounding villages and stealing possessions. Thousands were forced to flee. The once five classroom school with cement floors, toilets and sinks with running water, glass windows, and 258 wildly enthusiastic K-4th grade students was destroyed. Everything was left in shambles.

This school was the beacon of hope for the students in Marunde, who looked forward to being able to learn and have a chance toward a greater future. Attending school meant that kids could learn to read and write, explore their curiosities and discover their passions. Education was the key to opening doors of opportunities to create a better life for themselves.

Now at the Mikenge UN base, where much of the population has fled, a temporary school has been built made of mud and sticks with thatched roofs. Although the conditions are much worse, the students are still relentless in their desire to go to school to learn. They continue to go despite losing almost everything and regional fighting instability. However, current poverty levels mean neither the school nor the students’ parents can afford to provide basic school supplies such as books, pens, and notebooks, which are essential to quality education. This fundraiser seeks to do just that – the money donated here will be used to provide students of the Mama Shujaa School with backpacks, writing materials, papers, books, and uniforms.

Any donation counts. Even a few dollars means that one more kid can have a notebook, a few pencils, or a book to read! It brings us closer to providing these students with the quality education they deserve. As we navigate through these difficult times, help is greatly appreciated!

(@ Students attending the Hero Women Rising Anniversary Gala in Atlanta, GA, a $10 donation will cover the ticket cost!)