The Daughters of Charity arrived in Koussieh, Upper Egypt, in 1955. There, they opened an elementary school and a small health clinic for the very poor. Since then, services for the community have expanded to include: kindergartens, care for children with disabilities, a sewing workshop, tutoring, youth groups, home visits to families and the elderly, and parish activities… 

“We also lead weekly meetings for 200 women divided into two groups: one for new mothers to raise their awareness about raising their children; and the other to provide a time for spiritual reflection, sharing, and relaxation for older women from disadvantaged backgrounds.” Sr. Marie Chafic

The three sisters are assisted by teams of young parishioners and volunteers sent by the Œuvre d’Orient.

The Project: Organizing the first vacation for underprivileged women this summer 

The initiative aims to provide a respite and a chance for well-being to women trapped in a difficult daily life marked by poverty and heavy family responsibilities.

“By offering them a short stay by the sea in Alexandria or recreational and educational activities during a ‘summer camp’ in Koussieh, these mothers and grandmothers will experience a time of joy, relaxation, and vacation that they have never had…” Sr. Marie Chafic

The participants will be well taken care of

- The beach trip to Alexandria will include about 40 women of all ages from underprivileged families. It will take place from August 25 to 31, for 5 days. Sr. Marie Chafic and 6 volunteers will be present. The group will travel by bus to a lodging facility where meals will be prepared together. 

- The "summer camp" in Koussieh will welcome about sixty mothers whose children attend the “Better Life” tutoring program. It will take place from July 1 to 7, all day long. Sr. Marie Chafic, four volunteer facilitators, and guest speakers will lead recreational and educational activities. 

Families will also participate as much as they can.

A real impact on well-being and inclusion

These vacation days, whether at the beach or at a “summer camp,” will take place in an atmosphere of joy and relaxation. The impact will be real on the daily lives of these mothers and grandmothers, which are already very difficult: realizing the right to rest, leaving their usual surroundings and discovering the sea for the first time, breaking social isolation through encounters and sharing, and strengthening educational capacities and psychological support.

With these women this summer, 
Thanks to you !

If the project raises more than its goal, any excess funds received will be allocated to a similar project.