The Daughters of Charity alongside poor children in Upper Egypt

The Daughters of Charity community has been established since 1965 in this neglected region, a five-hour drive south of Cairo, which is home to 95% of the country's poorest villages. Population growth is strong there.  

“Christians living along the banks of the Nile continue to face severe discrimination, despite President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sissi's commitment to defend Coptic citizens, who make up nearly 10% of the population.” Sr. Nada

In the two villages of Koussieh and Menchieh, 10 km apart, the Daughters of Charity are familiar with the misery of the inhabitants:

"In Zarabi, a poor neighborhood of Koussieh, people sometimes live alongside animals in mud houses. Electricity is not always available, and people use candles for light, which causes many domestic accidents such as burns among children. Most of the workers in the region are farmers. Often abused by their husbands, women are forced to stay at home or work in the fields. There are many sick people, alcohol problems, and abused women and children" laments Sr. Nada.

"Many families keep their children at home (girls) to take care of younger siblings or animals they may have at home, or to work as day laborers in the fields (boys)."

In these two villages, the sisters offer free activities so that 175 children from poor families can receive education and care: a kindergarten welcomes around 100 poor children aged 3 to 6 in the Zarabi neighborhood, and a remedial school (the “Better Life” program) supports 75 street children in their education.

“Without help from their uneducated parents, they need extra lessons because they often struggle at school, and many are still illiterate.” Sr. Nada

Project: Address urgent building repair needs and improve living conditions and education for children in poor neighborhoods.

But as the cost of living rises and the currency depreciates, the sisters need resources to ensure that they can meet the basic needs of these children.

“Our house in Koussieh is nearly 70 years old and needs repairs. Everything is falling apart: the stairs are becoming dangerous because they are cracked, as are the exterior walls.” 

“We also need to continue providing one or two balanced meals a day to the children at the Zarabi kindergarten, who do not always get enough to eat. We are constantly striving to meet the needs of street children, such as clothing, school supplies, meals, but also outings and Christmas gifts. Finally, we have to pay the salaries of 16 educators.” Sr. Nada

“We realize that the amount requested is substantial. Anything you can give us will be helpful.” Sr Nada

If the project is funded beyond its target, the surplus donations received will be allocated to a similar project.