THE DIGNITY AND RIGHTS OF OLDER PEOPLE IN THE DRC

Project Summary:

This project aims to address the needs of deaf-blind children and vulnerable older adults in the North and South Kivu provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Due to the rarity of this disability, many parents lack the necessary skills to communicate and interact effectively with these children, often resulting in social isolation, neglect, or even abandonment. This project seeks to improve the quality of life for these vulnerable groups by providing concrete solutions for their inclusion, recognition of their rights, and improvement of their well-being.

Project Objectives:

1. Identify deaf-blind children in Goma and surrounding areas to provide them with appropriate education and necessary medical follow-up.
2. Improve the living conditions of vulnerable older adults in Goma and Bukavu by providing targeted healthcare services, social support, and training for income-generating activities.
3. Strengthen the recognition of the rights and dignity of deaf-blind children and older adults through awareness and training programs for families, communities, and local actors.
4. Reduce social isolation and marginalization of deaf-blind children and older adults by enhancing their social and economic inclusion.

Context and Rationale:
The population of deaf-blind children and older adults in the DRC is particularly vulnerable. Children with this disability face severe social exclusion, with limited access to specialized education or proper care. Older adults, on the other hand, live in precarious conditions, often without access to adequate healthcare and with little social support. In cities like Goma and Bukavu, the situation is further aggravated by insecurity and a lack of awareness of the rights of these groups.

Approach and Methodology:

• Identification of beneficiaries: In collaboration with local authorities and community associations, we will identify deaf-blind children and vulnerable older adults.
• Awareness and training: Training sessions will be organized for families and local communities to promote the inclusion of deaf-blind children and older adults.
• Medical and social follow-up: A healthcare program will be established to address the specific needs of the beneficiaries, with special attention to mental and physical health.
• Economic support: Training will be provided to help older adults acquire professional skills and generate income, thereby reducing their dependency.

Partnership with GlobalGiving:
Through collaboration with GlobalGiving, this project will benefit from a global platform for fundraising and increased visibility. GlobalGiving is a recognized organization for its expertise in funding humanitarian projects, ensuring transparent management and maximum efficiency in the use of resources. By partnering with GlobalGiving, we are confident that we can achieve our goals and improve the lives of hundreds of children and older adults.

Expected Results:

1. Identification and support of 200 deaf-blind children in Goma and surrounding areas.
2. Improvement in the living conditions of 200 vulnerable older adults through targeted healthcare services and income-generating activities.
3. Awareness and training of 500 community members, including parents, teachers, and community leaders, on the rights of deaf-blind children and older adults.
4. Reduction of marginalization and social isolation of vulnerable groups in the targeted communities.

Long-Term Impact:

• Increased economic independence for 200 older adults, thanks to training and income-generating activities.
• Reduction of poverty in the targeted communities, through inclusive approaches and empowerment of older adults.
• Improved social cohesion and resilience in communities through intergenerational inclusion and reduced discrimination.
• Sustained support for deaf-blind children and older adults, through the establishment of social support networks and accessible healthcare services.

Estimated Budget:
The total estimated budget for the project is 40,000usd, spread over a 12-month period. This funding will cover costs related to awareness campaigns, training, medical care, income-generating activities, and beneficiary follow-up.

Conclusion:
This project is critical to improving the living conditions of deaf-blind children and vulnerable older adults in the DRC. Thanks to the partnership with GlobalGiving, we have the opportunity to reach a large network of donors and ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of our actions. We are confident that this project will have a significant impact on the lives of these vulnerable groups and contribute to strengthening local communities.

Recommended Actions:

• Provide financial support to contribute to the realization of this project.
• Participate in awareness campaigns to raise awareness about the needs of deaf-blind children and older adults in the DRC.
• Encourage local partnerships to maximize the impact of the project and ensure its sustainability.