Standing with Congolese Families in Crisis
For decades, war in the Democratic Republic of Congo has displaced millions of families, forcing many to flee their homes again and again. Today, tens of thousands have crossed into neighboring Burundi, arriving in overcrowded camps with little more than what they could carry.
Through trusted local churches, Foursquare Disaster Relief is walking alongside these families, meeting urgent needs while helping them begin again.
7 million and counting displaced
The crisis in eastern Congo is one of the longest and most complex humanitarian emergencies in the world. For over two decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has suffered from relentless civil war, resulting in unspeakable violence and oppression. Especially targeting women, this violence perpetuates a cycle of endless suffering, displacing 6.3 million internally and forcing 1 million to flee the country. Approximately 6 million have died since 1996, a number many consider to be a vast understatement. The ongoing war in DR Congo is the deadliest conflict the world has seen since WWII. Recent escalations in conflict have forced entire families to flee once more, many crossing borders into Burundi in search of safety.
Where we respond
Serving on both sides of the border
In the Democratic Republic of Congo
Local Foursquare churches remain present in some of the most affected areas, including Goma and Bukavu. There are 1,300 Foursquare churches in DRC.
Local leaders are providing:
- Food distributions for displaced families
- Ongoing care for pastors and communities
- Ministry in displacement camps
In Burundi Refugee Camps
In Burundi, Foursquare churches are responding directly inside refugee camps, where thousands of Congolese families are now living.
In partnership with Foursquare Disaster Relief, they are providing both immediate relief and long-term support to help families rebuild their lives.
Foursquare Disaster Relief Response
Medical Aid
In 2023, FDR Medical conducted training for DRC medical professionals. The local team is now equipped with the skills necessary to conduct medical outreaches and respond effectively during acute crises.
Food Distribution
Led by Foursquare DRC and Burundi, food distributions of rice, maize, oil, salt, vegetables, and beans are being held in refugee camps to relieve the starvation that plagues thousands.
Ongoing Care
Foursquare DRC, under the leadership of national leader Apostle Constant Damba Onasaka, partners with Foursquare Disaster Relief to provide ongoing care for the community. Challenges are perpetual, thus the need for financial support persists.
From Foursquare DRC national leader, Apostle Constant Damba Onasaka:
As we have served thousands in the displacement camps here in Eastern DRC, I have witnessed the hand of God reaching people—miracles have happened. The gospel has permeated the camps and many have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. There are so many needs, we must maintain a long-term vision for this ministry. Thank you for partnering with us.
How You Can Get Involved
Pastors + leaders, please these resources to share with your church or community to partner with Foursquare Disaster Relief in responding to the crisis in DRC.
If you prefer to read this information in Spanish, click here.