In Kirehe, Rwanda, the Daughters of Charity are faced with many forms of poverty. Many families, often arriving from Tanzania, are homeless or have poor housing.
3 very poor families needed a new roof. The aim of the ‘It's a blue house’ project was to build 3 houses.
«Finding a home will give them back their dignity and help them improve their living conditions.» Sr Marie Louise
While the building permits were being obtained, the families took an active part in building their homes by making bricks, then the land was levelled. Once the masons had been recruited, construction of the 3 houses began in October.
«The beneficiaries are so happy to have their own homes. They finally have a fixed dwelling and no longer live like nomads. They feel safé and no longer contract diseases. Thanks to the money saved on renting the houses, they will be able to save more. Above all, they feel dignified and valued in society.» Sr Olive NYIRANZAKIRA
One of the fathers said :
«"I, NDAYAMBAJE Emmanuel, and my family of six, would like to thank the Congregation of the Daughters of Charity for helping us to build a four-bedroom house, and we thank God who inspired you to think of us.
You've put us in a decent place, and we're happy because we have a big, dignified house compared to the old one-bedroom cottage that made us feel ashamed in society. In that small house, there wasn't enough room for the whole family, and the children had to move to the neighbours' houses. We thank you so much for helping us. May God bless you eternally.»
«Dear donors, we are very grateful for your support for our mission in Rusumo. We thank you for your love, sharing and concern for those in need, especially the 3 families who were homeless.
May the grace of Jesus Christ be with you always!»
Sr Marie Louise ICYIMPAYE and the Rusumo community - Rwanda