Name: Masika*
Status: Orphaned after her parents were killed by guerrilla soldiers in war-ravaged DRC
Hometown: Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo
Update: When 9-year-old Masika (*not her real name) wakes up each morning in the war-ravaged Democratic Republic of Congo, she no longer fears for her life. Masika suffered unimaginable tragedy when she witnessed her parent’s murder and was then raped by the soldiers.
She is one of countless young girls in the DRC who have been left orphaned, alone and abused. Today, however, she lives within the safety of an all girls center in Goma, a facility aided by Operation Blessing, where she receives clothes, food, safe housing, counseling, and an education.
Making Change: Last year, the center was operating at full capacity, housing and caring for 64 girls between ages 3 and 17. Operation Blessing helped expand the compound by constructing and furnishing a new dormitory to house an additional 50 girls in need.
“Through counseling, medical treatment, education and vocational skills, this center in Goma is bringing hope and giving a fresh start to the girls,” said David Darg, director of international disaster relief and special projects for Operation Blessing.
Did you know: In some areas of the DRC, it is estimated that 9 of every 10 women have been raped. The UN has declared the Congo war as being the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.