In the summer of 2019, I embarked on a research expedition in the Congo, focusing on the profound impact of open defecation on the lives of residents in rural areas, particularly vulnerable children. During my time there, I discovered that this community had become a tragic epicenter of ongoing conflict, with warfare persisting throughout my research period.

This relentless conflict, which has plagued the region since the 1990s, left the children of this community in dire straits—hungry, homeless, and deprived of even the most basic educational resources. In response to their desperate situation, we initiated a fundraising effort to provide these children with essential necessities, including food, shelter, and educational materials.

However, the sustainability of our efforts has become increasingly challenging, as they have largely relied on the generosity of a few individuals. It is with a profound sense of urgency and compassion that we now appeal to the international community for assistance. Together, we can bring joy and hope back into the lives of these resilient children, who have endured unimaginable hardships. Your support can make a world of difference and help restore smiles to their faces\.