Thanks to your support, the Patmos Children’s Village continues to be a haven of refuge for orphan and vulnerable children in this war-torn country. The children are safe and continue to thrive thanks to the nurturing care they receive. This is made possible through the generosity of ICC family members like YOU!
Though Conflict Rages, Children Continue to Live in Safety
Since the beginning of 2025, M23 rebels have escalated their military actions in the eastern DR Congo capturing Goma at the end of January and Bukavu by mid-February. This has significantly impacted the lives of the local populations as well as those living on Idjwi island where ICC’s Patmos Children’s Village is located. The United Nations reports that more than one million individuals have been forced to flee since the beginning of the year, escaping the rising violence and insecurity.
The connections between Idjwi and the cities of Goma and Bukavu are vital for supplying essential goods, including food, medicines, and medical supplies. The M23’s control of these towns has imposed strict restrictions on movement and trade. This has disrupted supply chains to Idjwi. It has been difficult for ICC’s project director, Désiré, to secure the essential items needed by the children.
However, praise the Lord, He has provided. Through quick action and resourcefulness, Désiré was able to locate the food and supplies needed through the end of March though prices had risen sharply on many items. ICC’s primary focus during this time of crisis has been to keep the children’s village calm and secure from outside pressures and influence so the children can stay removed from the conflict that surrounds them. Many of the children know all too well the ravages of war.
The conflict continues, and that part of the DR Congo faces uncertain days ahead. Désiré and the caregivers are doing their best to provide the safety, food, essential medicine, and supplies that are needed.
They could not do this if it weren’t for the caring support of ICC family members like you who have answered the urgent appeals for support. Because YOU CARE and have provided emergency funds, Désiré has the financial resources to purchase the food and supplies that the children need – for as long as he can source them. On behalf of ICC’s Patmos Family, thank you very much for your support, especially during this time of crisis! Please continue to pray for their safety and that peace will return to the region. Thank you!
Paying Forward the Support YOU Have Given Them
The conflict and resulting suffering of refugees has touched the hearts of Patmos children and has had a positive impact. According to Désiré, ICC children have undertaken a mission to support nearby refugees. They collected food and clothing from members of local churches and helped to distribute them to refugees nearby.
Two of the Patmos children publicly testified that they saw the connection of how God remembered them when they needed help. He sent benefactors and sponsors to support their housing, food, schooling, and healthcare — all for free. These children also expressed their commitment to assist refugees, as they are experiencing the same hardships their parents once faced.
According to Désiré, “This powerful testimony has inspired many other children in the community, encouraging them to share their own stories and support one another… Thanks to the generosity of the community, we have been able to gather resources to help those who are suffering… May God continue to guide and strengthen us in our efforts to help our brothers and sisters in distress.”
A BIG THANK YOU for YOUR HELP!
What a challenging few months the Patmos Family has experienced. Even before the conflict flared up in Eastern DR Congo, Patmos Children’s Village experienced torrential rain which caused massive flooding and erosion. Through it all, our children were protected.
And thanks to your recent generosity, work is underway to recover from the flooding and prevent further damage from heavy rains in the future. Thank you very much for your assistance in helping to protect buildings and keep the children safe!
Patmos Gardens are Vital, and YOU can help!
For many years, your support of Patmos children has enabled them to learn valuable lessons and skills in the family’s garden. Here’s how Désiré explains it:
In normal life, children learn to cultivate and maintain gardens. Each family must have its own garden so that children can learn these essential skills. When they leave the village, they must know how to cultivate their own fields.
When we prepare the budget, we should consider the harvest period. Even if we can only harvest fresh food that can be consumed for three or four days, the children are happy because they see that others have fresh corn, fresh beans, and other fruits as well as some profit from soy. The food we buy from the market is often exposed to the sun for a long time, especially in environments without refrigeration.
