Too often, when we hear about a country in turmoil, we want to help, but end up telling ourselves: “There’s nothing to be done. What’s the point?”

In our experience, the answer to this question lies not in the evening news, but on the ground.

There is reason for hope. It comes from local organizations who understand the situation better than anyone.

Look up “Beni” or “Bunia” on Google News. Any search on these two cities in the Democratic Republic of Congo will turn up reports of massacres, displaced populations, sexual violence, and kidnappings.

Despite the danger, the women’s organization SOFEPADI (Female Solidarity for Integrated Peace and Development) offers medical, psychological, financial, and legal support to victims of sexual violence. It also organizes activities to promote a dialogue for peace and backs legal action against sexual aggressors.

Since 2000, the brave women of SOFEPADI have been accomplishing all this with very limited means. With greater support, they would be able to achieve a great deal more. This is where you come in.

Despite the great distance, your generosity will make a difference in the heart of Congo and improve the lives of older Congolese women and their families.