DRC: Helping children in times of disaster

1. Background and Rationale

In the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in South Kivu, natural and humanitarian disasters occur repeatedly: floods, earthquakes, epidemics, and forced displacement. In every crisis, children pay the highest price. They lose access to education, health care, adequate nutrition, and social protection. Girls, children living with disabilities, and those from extremely poor families are the most exposed.

These situations cause deep psychological trauma, family separation, loss of essential property, and a sense of abandonment that seriously threatens children’s future.

2. Project Overview

The Rapid Response Project for Children in Times of Disaster is a humanitarian initiative implemented by OGDH-RDC in South Kivu. Its aim is to provide immediate and appropriate assistance to children affected by natural or human-made disasters.

The main objective is to save lives, protect children, and restore their dignity by responding to their most urgent needs during emergencies.

3. Specific Objectives

• Provide emergency humanitarian assistance to affected children
• Improve access to health care and nutrition
• Offer psychosocial support to reduce trauma
• Ensure basic protection in high-risk environments

4. Beneficiaries

The project will directly support 40 children affected by disasters in South Kivu, with special attention given to girls and children living with disabilities.

5. Key Activities

• Distribution of food and essential medicines
• Provision of clothing, shoes, and blankets
• Basic medical assistance
• Psychological support and psychosocial follow-up
• Referral to protection services when necessary
• Intervention area: South Kivu Province, Eastern DRC
• Project start date: November 2025

6. Location and Implementation Period

The project is currently in the phase of identifying trainers and beneficiaries to ensure effective and context-appropriate implementation.

7. Budget and Funding

• Total project budget: USD 10,000
• Funds raised so far: USD 26

Thanks to our collaboration with GlobalGiving, we are confident that we will reach our funding goal. This partnership provides an important platform for visibility and donor mobilization at the international level.

8. Expected Results

• Children receive timely assistance and protection
• Improved physical health and psychological well-being
• Reduced risks of neglect and abandonment
• A strong message of solidarity with affected communities

9. Call to Donors

Every contribution matters. Even a small donation can make the difference between despair and hope for a child in distress. By supporting this project, you are directly helping to protect innocent lives and rebuild futures broken by disaster.

We call on individuals, organizations, and partners to join this high-impact humanitarian initiative. Together, we can reach the goal and respond to urgent needs.

10. Acknowledgements

We express our sincere gratitude to all donors and partners who have already contributed to this project. Your support, trust, and solidarity are a powerful source of hope for the children of South Kivu and for the entire OGDH-RDC team.

Thank you for believing in humanity. Thank you for standing with children.