Mobility assistance for disabled children in DRC

Hope and Mobility for Disabled Children 1. Background and Justification In the Democratic Republic of Congo, despite extensive polio vaccination campaigns, thousands of children continue to live with motor disabilities. In a country of over 100 million inhabitants—ranked last on the Human Development Index—families often lack access to specialized medical care, orthopedic devices, and inclusive education. Disabled children are among the most vulnerable. They face discrimination, isolation, limited mobility, and restricted access to education, all of which harm their dignity and future prospects. Without support, the consequences are severe on social, psychological, and economic levels. 2. Overall Project Objective This project aims to give 365 motor-disabled children a new chance by providing: • appropriate medical care, • customized orthopedic devices, • full educational support in inclusive schools, • social integration that fosters autonomy, dignity, and confidence. The goal is not only to help these children walk, but also to learn, participate, and become valued members of their communities. 3. Planned Activities • Medical assessments and corrective treatments for each child. • Production and distribution of customized orthopedic devices to improve mobility and independence. • Educational support, including school fees in inclusive schools. • Community integration activities to strengthen social inclusion and acceptance of disability. • Training of local teams and support for families. • Continuous follow-up to ensure lasting improvements in quality of life. 4. Current Progress The project, carried out in collaboration with GlobalGiving, is moving forward: • Official start date: November 2025 • Current phase: identification of trainers, learners, and local partners • Total budget: $912,500 • Funds already collected: $1, marking the symbolic beginning of the campaign • Ongoing mobilization through GlobalGiving and early supporters We express our sincere gratitude to those who have already contributed. Their generosity marks the first step of a meaningful transformation. 5. Overall Budget (Summary) The budget covers the following: • Medical care and corrective treatments • Production of orthopedic devices • Schooling and educational materials • Training of local staff • Community follow-up and project logistics (Detailed allocations available upon request to ensure transparency.) 6. Expected Impact In the long term, the project will enable: • Improved mobility for each child, • Greater independence, • Reintegration into school and community life, • Stronger societal acceptance of disability, • The emergence of young advocates for disability rights. These changes will transform lives and reduce long-standing inequalities. 7. Call to Donors We extend a sincere and urgent appeal to partners, institutions, organizations, and individuals who care about vulnerable children: Join us. Every contribution, even small, transforms a life. Every donation brings a child closer to mobility, dignity, and education. A child who can move and attend school becomes an adult capable of shaping their future and contributing to their nation. Through GlobalGiving, your support is transparent, secure, and monitored at every phase. 8. Acknowledgements We warmly thank all the donors who have already contributed. Your support is the foundation of a chain of hope that continues to grow. We trust that more compassionate people will join you in giving these children the future they deserve.