Helping End Poverty in Congo
Those of us working and volunteering at Grace Giving International spend a lot of time in The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Although many of you may know where DRC is on the map, you may not be aware of the incredible need the people in this country have for basic staples such as food and clothing.
Violence, poverty, and political unrest has created an extremely difficult way of life for the Congolese people. Surprisingly, when it comes to natural resources, Congo is actually among the richest countries in the world. The paradox does not go unnoticed to its struggling population.
The Congo is home to trillions of dollars’ worth of gold, platinum, iron, diamonds, natural gas, uranium, and miles upon miles of arable land. Yet, despite the richness of the country’s natural resources, over half of the citizens of the country live below the poverty line. So, why is such a rich country so full of poverty? It boils down to political instability, colonization, and exploitation.
Rich Land, Poor People
Known as the curse of resources, the people of Congo are poor, because of the wealth of natural resources. Imperial European powers have consistently exploited the country for centuries. Congolese men and women were used as slaves, villages were pillaged, a plethora of dictators, and disease and rebellion, has led to unstable political conditions.
Despite an effort to hold a democratic government, elections are riddled with conflict and violence. Despite good intentions by the people of Congo, the country remains disenfranchised, unhealthy, and extremely poor with an inability to take control of their incredible natural resources.
Giving Can Change Lives
Our goal at Grace Giving International is to help ease the toll that poverty has taken on the Congo by providing resources and hope to the Congolese people. Our volunteers have helped to build schools, churches, deliver food, clothing, and the word of God. Through these resources and faith, we are changing lives every day. We encourage you to give whatever you can to help us better the lives of these deserving people. Through volunteer work, donations, or both, you can make a big difference. We are stronger together.
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John@gracegivinginternational.org
PO Box 31525, Spokane, WA 99223
