Founded in 2007 by Northumberland born Ian Harvey, the Congo C
hildren’s Trust set about improving the lives of children living on the streets of Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo. There are thought to be over 250,000 children living on the streets and many have been orphaned; or their parents have divorced and abandoned them for their new families. Others are accused of child witchcraft, a wide held belief in Congo which forces children to flee for fear of abuse. Children are drawn to local markets, where they can find shelter and work; but the stigmatisation of living on the streets makes it difficult for them to be re-accepted by their families or community. 
98% of funds raised by the Trust go directly to Kimbilio- a sanctuary for the homeless youngsters of the city. Funds raised are used to provide much needed food, education, health care, and construction costs, as well as to support the team of committed and experienced workers in D.R.Congo.
Our support of this remarkable organistaion spans over 5 years now and in that time we have re
furbished the toilet block, installed new showers, we’ve bought a generator to help with the fractured power supply in the area, bought 3 batches of 6 bunk beds along with mattresses and linen.
We’ve helped with the education facilities, painting of the classroom, and bought new d
esks, a blackboard, storage cupboards and helped with furnature for the dayrooms too.
Kimbilio currently operates three premises with another in construction. Along with a grant from Rotary District 1210, we have helped fund the drilling of a well to provide fresh water at the facility.
Centre Kimbilio – a day centre near the city centre open to boys and girls living on the streets. The centre provides food, security, medical care, sports, literacy and art activities. The centres focus is on reintegration and assisting children to reconnect with their families.
Kimbilio Transit – Two transit homes provide short term accommodation while children are offered security and reintegration.
Maison Kimbilio – a children’s village currently being developed on the outskirts of Lubumbashi offering longer term accommodation, education and skills training to children formerly living on the streets of the city. Two permanent homes have now been constructed, alongside a basketball court, football pitch and chapel.
Pictures showing the new facility taking shape
D.R.Congo is an often overlooked location though it is the 2nd largest in Africa and one of the wealthiest countries in the world in terms of natural resources, but it’s’ inhabitants rank among the poorest and most exploited on earth.
By helping children build a future with hope, Kimbilio offers them a second chance to achieve their dreams, where they can become a positive influence in the future of Congo.
Visit the website: https://congochildrentrust.org/
Or contact by email- click here Ian Harvey