In June 2022, a surge of violent conflict erupted in the North Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) displacing roughly 100,000 people. Conflict has continued to increase throught 2023, and the UNHCR estimates that there are now over 500,000 people who have fled their homes and resettled on the outskirts of the city of Goma, the capital of North Kivu. Among those who have been displaced, access to food and water is scarce, healthcare is severely limited, families are living in small crowded tents, and there are few opportunities for children to continue their education.

ODW is partnering with Justice Rising to support school-age children experiencing trauma and displacement.  Through the project, 305 of the most vulnerable children living in IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camps will be able to continue their studies through a year of quality, conflict-sensitive education at 3 Justice Rising’s Schools: Main Dans La Main, Arc-en-Ciel, and La Servante. Justice Rising will integrate these students into the school by hiring and training teachers from the IDP camps.  Students will receive school supplies and uniforms, and families will also receive support to establish small businesses for income generation.