Archive for category: Charity

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3 Charities Operating in Hong Kong

Charities Operating in Hong KongHong Kong is located on the east bank of the Pearl River on the south coast of China. It is known for its dazzling city life, colorful traditions and financial centers. What might be less apparent, however, is the divide between the rich and the needy. In the first four months of 2024, the most impoverished earned 81.9 times less than the richest. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, poverty rates have risen significantly. Currently, 1.39 million people live in poverty in Hong Kong, most of whom are older adults.

These three charities operating in Hong Kong provide aid to the most vulnerable communities and aim to mobilize local society to offer them care and support.

Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden

Sir Horace and Lord Lawrence, two brothers, founded Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (KFBG) in 1956. The idea sprouted after a surge of Chinese immigrants arrived in Hong Kong following the civil war at the end of 1946. Since many of these immigrants were farmers, the Kadoorie brothers provided them with training, guidance on how to plough their land and interest-free loans.

Its programs empower rural communities in Hong Kong and beyond to build income sources, improve food security and gain skills that promote long-term self-sufficiency and environmental resilience.

Hong Kong Family Link Mental Health Advocacy Association Limited

This organization was established in 2003 by Dr. Lee Cheng and Dr. Zhao Yulong to raise awareness about mental health in Hong Kong. In a society where stigma around mental illness remains widespread, the Hong Kong Family Link Mental Health Advocacy Association Limited works to combat discrimination and uphold the rights of people with mental health conditions.

The organization not only works to improve the lives of individuals with mental health conditions by providing access to education, employment and housing, but also offers medical care and vocational training to support their recovery from treatable illnesses.

In addition, it trains family members to actively participate in the care and recovery of their loved ones, empowering them to become part of the healing process. To further dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness, the organization engages the broader community, partnering with volunteers, journalists, medical professionals and other organizations to raise awareness and foster collaboration.

Helping Hand

Helping Hand was founded after Bob Saunders, a former fishmonger, came across 120 elderly individuals who had been evicted from “caged homes” and abandoned on the streets with only their meager belongings. In response, he established Helping Hand in 1978 to support underprivileged older adults in Hong Kong, with a mission to ensure they live with dignity after years of hard work.

Since then, the organization has expanded its services across several locations, including Tai Wo Ping, Shun Lee Tsuen and Lai King. Helping Hand provides 1,000 beds across its care homes and serves more than 40,000 older adults in need each year. Its services include housing, rehabilitation, a holiday center, physical activities and training programs designed to enhance the well-being of elderly residents.

In 1984, the organization launched its signature Cookie Campaign. This highly successful fundraising initiative continues to support Helping Hand’s mission of caring for Hong Kong’s aging population.

Conclusion

Despite the efforts of these three charities operating in Hong Kong, there is much more to do to bridge the wealth gap, eliminate societal stigma and provide every HongKonger with a decent and dignified life. Funding, volunteer work and community mobilization are the key moving forward.

– Yasmine Belabed

Yasmine is based in Algeria and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Benefitting Public Health in Trinidad and Tobago

Public Health in Trinidad and TobagoTrinidad and Tobago’s healthcare system is made up of both a federally-funded system and a private sector. As with most countries, the private sector of Trinidad and Tobago’s healthcare system grants people access to better hospitals and clinics, thus better care. However, the cost is not feasible for all Trinidadians and Tobagonians. Around 20% of Trinidad and Tobago’s population falls under the poverty line, and the few public healthcare facilities on the islands lack adequate supplies, ambulance services, and technology to provide high quality care.

The non-communicable diseases  heart disease is the leading cause of death in Trinidad and Tobago, accounting for 60% of deaths in the country. Other causes such as lupus and drowning are low, but they do still contribute to a chunk of the health issues in the country.

From providing civilian training on lifesaving techniques to providing mental health services, here are five charities that are aiming to bring better public health services to the 1.3 million citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

1. The ADHD Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago

The ADHD Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago believes that behavioral health is just as important as physical health. The organization is benefiting public health in Trinidad and Tobago by providing the support and services that children and young adults with ADHD require to reach their full potential.

The foundation offers aid through many different avenues. It hosts training programs to educate parents of children with ADHD about the condition and give them strategies to better manage their child’s behavior. There are workshops for training teachers on identifying ADHD behaviors and creating an ADHD-friendly classroom environment, and for giving children self-management tools. The ADHD Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago also conducts research to ensure that its intervention techniques are effective and aims to provide low-cost counseling and testing for children with ADHD.

2. Arrhythmia Alliance 

Arrhythmia Alliance originated in 2004 with the goal to improve services for arrhythmias and other irregular heart rhythm disorders in the U.K. The organization comprises health care professionals, patients, caregivers and policy makers. In the past 20 years, Arrhythmia Alliance has expanded to more than 40 countries worldwide, including Trinidad and Tobago. 

Its mission is to “promote timely and effective diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmias” by educating and bringing awareness to the heart disorder. Arrhythmia Alliance is a partner of World Heart Rhythm Week, which takes place annually during the first week of June, and advocates for enhanced heart rhythm care worldwide. It also sponsors the Know Your Pulse program, which educates the public on the importance of knowing how to take your own pulse to prevent medical emergencies such as strokes.

3. The Trinidad & Tobago Lifesaving Society

The Trinidad & Tobago Lifesaving Society (TTLS) falls under the Royal Life Saving Society. The organization, which is registered in the U.K., covers 31 Commonwealth countries and works to help communities in developing “lifesaving education initiatives and drowning prevention programmes.”

The Trinidad & Tobago Lifesaving Society branch formed in 1948. However, its original name was the Maracas Bay Lifeguard Club and it became known as the TTLS in 1976. The society trains lifeguards, lifesavers, military personnel, schools and public members. As of today, Trinidad and Tobago has more than 600 lifeguards who are actively involved in teaching, lifesaving and contributing to public health improvements in Trinidad and Tobago.

4. The Trinidad and Tobago Red Cross Society

The Trinidad and Tobago Red Cross Society’s (TTRCS) main mission is to provide ambulance services that are fully stocked with medical equipment and run by trained paramedics. These ambulances provide many services, including medical care, such as blood pressure and glucose testing, and transport to hospitals. The TTRCS also benefits public health in Trinidad and Tobago by teaching CPR and First Aid training to civilians in order to help people respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.

The TTRCS established the Henry Dunant Clinic in April 2021 with the purpose of bringing some relief to the overwhelmed healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic. The clinic aims to provide locals with free healthcare thanks to volunteer healthcare professionals.

5. The Voice of Lupus Foundation

The Voice of Lupus Foundation is a nonprofit that works to improve the lives of those lupus has impacted in Trinidad and Tobago. Its mission is to draw awareness to the often overlooked disease by advocating, educating the public and supporting patients and families who have Lupus has affected. Furthermore, through its advocacy efforts, The Voice of Lupus Foundation hopes to amplify the voices of Lupus patients and their families and help them receive access to care and support services.

Looking Ahead

Improving the health care system in Trinidad and Tobago will require a lot of work and committed efforts. However, these five highlighted charities have tackled different aspects of public health, from mental health to emergency response, to try and fill gaps that the government has left and build a healthier Trinidad and Tobago.

– Hannah Fruehstorfer

Hannah is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Effect of Louis Tomlinson’s Participation in Soccer Aid

Louis Tomlinson's participation in Soccer AidThousands of fans come together to watch a charity match called Soccer Aid each year. Professional soccer players and celebrities are on the match’s opposing sides. Amid the competitive spirit, these teams face off to raise both awareness and money for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Old Trafford Stadium hosted the annual Soccer Aid match on June 15, 2025, with several remarkable participants. In particular, the former “One Direction” star Louis Tomlinson’s participation in Soccer Aid rallied impressive support.

What is Soccer Aid?

Soccer Aid is an annual charity event that raises money for UNICEF, a U.N. agency that brings development and stability to children globally. The event represents what UNICEF strives for: “to protect play for every child.”

First, celebrities and athletes alike form two teams. One team’s participants are from England and the other team contains players from across the globe. Then, in the spirit of charity and competition, the two teams – England and World IX – face off. Over the years, notable participants such as Usain Bolt, David Beckham and “One Direction” members have taken to the field.

Thanks to the efforts of these participants, Soccer Aid has raised more than $121 million for UNICEF since 2006. This money, from ticket sales and generous donations, brings children out of poverty globally. Every match played brings more and more children access to health care, nutrition, education and emergency relief.

Louis Tomlinson’s Participation in Soccer Aid

Tomlinson has been a long-term supporter of the Soccer Aid program. This year, he took to the field wearing his lucky number, 28. Even without being a professional soccer player, the 90 minutes he spent playing right back attracted much attention to the cause. The singer’s touches on the ball caused the crowd’s cheers to become especially noticeable to those watching the match live.

Tomlinson’s participation in Soccer Aid doesn’t just exist in his effort on the field. He made great strides as an ambassador off the field as well. He used his significant influence on social media as a means to encourage the public to make donations. In one video, he illustrated the value of giving by comparing what $27 (20 pounds) could buy — either a takeaway pizza for children or 80 exercise books.

Beyond his involvement in Soccer Aid, Tomlinson has taken multiple steps to fight global poverty. He supported the ONE Campaign, which aims to end extreme poverty worldwide, backed a movement to tackle food poverty in U.K. schools and hosted a livestream concert to raise funds for a U.K.-based organization focused on food relief. Tomlinson is a long-time advocate for the impoverished community and his participation in the 2025 Soccer Aid match only reinforced that.

Funds Raised and Purpose

This year, the match raised more than $15 million. According to the nonprofit, the funds will provide “food, health care, safe spaces and crisis support around the world — all helping children grow up safe, healthy and able to play.” By delivering essential resources to thousands of children, Soccer Aid gives them something powerful: freedom. The freedom to play, to enjoy childhood and to grow into whoever they choose to be.

Moving Forward

UNICEF benefited greatly from Tomlinson’s participation in Soccer Aid and it hopes that this level of support from the general public continues. This match brings stability and hope to thousands of children worldwide every year. It helps minors escape from the depths of poverty and creates a brighter version of their future.

Soccer Aid aims to unite people under the shared love of soccer and use it to support impoverished children. Under this mission, thousands of children have lived better and escaped poverty.

– Caroline May

Caroline is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Tanzania

5 Charities Operating in TanzaniaTanzania is acknowledged for its rich national parks like Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. However, beyond its scenic landscapes, many citizens face significant economic hardship. As populations increase, the poverty rates also increase. In 2011, about 12.3 million Tanzanians lived in vulnerable conditions. By 2018, that number rose to 14 million. Still, recent data reveal progress—Zanzibar, for instance, recorded a 4.7% drop in poverty from 30.4% in 2014–15 to 25.7% in 2019–20. Charitable organizations have played a vital role in building community resilience and expanding access to essential services.

5 Charities Operating in Tanzania

  1. Save the Children. A global humanitarian organization focused on protecting children’s rights and well-being. The charity has worked with the Tanzanian government for more than 100 years, first launching its programs in Zanzibar before expanding across the country. Its efforts prioritize nutrition services, educational access and child poverty reduction. In Tanzania, 27% of the population lacks adequate sanitation and housing, with 8% living in extreme poverty. Children represent a significant portion of this population, comprising 44.8% of those affected. Save the Children operates under three core goals: eliminating preventable child deaths, ensuring access to education and protecting children from violence. Since 2024, the program has enacted 122 policy reforms and responded to 112 emergencies.
  2. Plan International. Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organization that promotes health care, clean water access and child protection. Established in Tanzania in 1991, the organization now operates in eight regions and aims to eliminate child poverty by 2030 through policy reform and community empowerment. Plan International adheres to the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child, which affirms children’s right to security and care. Its long-term vision is to ensure all children, especially girls, have the opportunity to thrive.
  3. BAPS Charities. BAPS Charities provides essential services in health, education and nutrition. The BAPS clinic in Dar es Salaam is one of its most notable programs in Tanzania, offering free medical services to families. The clinic operates weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Services include lab work, treatment and food distribution. Children are given safe spaces and nourishment, such as water and snacks, contributing to a warm and welcoming environment.
  4. Zara Charity. Founded in 2009 by Zainab Ansell, Zara Charity is a nonprofit registered under the United Republic of Tanzania. It works to improve the lives of disadvantaged families through eco-tourism partnerships and educational support for women and orphans. Notable sponsors include Zita Tanzanian Wild Camps Ltd. and Tour Compass. Its key initiative is organizing volunteer cleanups on Mount Kilimanjaro to reduce environmental waste. Additionally, these activities provide residents, especially the underserved, with cleaner living conditions.
  5. Kupona Foundation. Kupona Foundation is a U.S.-based nonprofit that partners with the Comprehensive Community-Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT). The organization is dedicated to strengthening Tanzania’s health care systems. Kupona has raised $7 million to support medical treatment, training and infrastructure. Furthermore, with 87% of its funds directed to programming, the organization ensures financial accountability and sustainability. Kupona’s efforts help expand access to quality care while laying the foundation for long-term development.

Looking Ahead

Tanzania continues to make progress in reducing poverty, due to the efforts of local and international charitable organizations. These five charities exemplify how targeted interventions in health, education, environmental sustainability and child protection can transform communities. Indeed, as the nation pushes toward sustainable development, the work of these charities operating in Tanzania offers a roadmap for continued growth, resilience and hope.

– Janae Bayford

Janae is based in Centennial, CO, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Montenegro

Charities Operating in MontenegroA small, southeastern European country, Montenegro declared independence from Serbia on June 3, 2006. Native Montenegrins form only 41% of the population with Serbs, Bosnians, Albanians and Russians from neighboring countries forming the rest of the population. With a long Adriatic coastline boasting 72 km of beaches and well-preserved ancient towns, tourism remains a key industry, welcoming 2.1 million visitors in 2022. Other main sectors include steel, aluminium, agriculture and consumer goods. Despite the country’s success in various industries, poverty is a problem that five charities operating in Montenegro are attempting to address.

About Poverty in Montenegro

According to the 2023/2024 UN Human Development report, Montenegro retains its position as a country of very high human development for the seventh year in a row. Life expectancy, education and income have all seen significant growth, with the gross national income per capita increasing by 64.5% and the Human Development Index rising by 12.7% between 2003 and 2022. However, despite economic progress, income inequality and poverty persist ― particularly in northern and rural areas ― significantly impacting displaced persons, ethnic minorities and children in institutional care. As of 2022, 17.2% of Montenegro’s population live below the upper-middle-income poverty line of $6.85 per day. Children are particularly affected, with 28.4% at risk of poverty in 2022, a slight improvement from 30.5% in 2021.

To alleviate these issues related to poverty in Montenegro whilst meeting development goals, UNDP resident representative Ekaterina Paniklova stresses the importance of Montenegro focusing on sustainable development, social protection and promoting innovation. Charities play a crucial role in bridging the gap between development goals and vulnerable communities affected by poverty. Here are five charities operating in Montenegro aiming to support communities affected by poverty:

1. Pristanište Foundation

The first of the charities operating in Montenegro is The Pristanište Foundation. Founded in March 2022, The Pristanište Foundation is a volunteering community supporting Ukrainians and other displaced persons arriving in Montenegro. Its Sleep in Silence program provides free temporary accommodation in Budva, basic necessities, SIM cards and emergency financial assistance to groups seeking aid. The foundation has helped more than 1,800 individuals, including 426 children, and is the only house in Montenegro accepting persons with disabilities. Individuals aided by the foundation express feeling “as if [they] have been transported to another reality, which delights with incredible views, positive emotions, and sincere feelings.”

In addition to material aid, the program offers psychological support through consultations and group sessions, aimed at reducing stress and trauma, and promoting resilience. Led by volunteer professionals, including clinical psychologist and psychotherapist Anna Sergeeva, this initiative has supported nearly 200 individuals since its launch, and plans are currently underway to expand the service. By offering free accommodation, necessities and psychosocial support, the foundation not only addresses the immediate needs of displaced persons but also mitigates their risk of falling into poverty ― a reality many migrants face upon arrival in a new country.

2. Red Cross of Montenegro

Founded in 1875, the Red Cross of Montenegro is a voluntary humanitarian organization involved in disaster response, health care, social support and community development. It offers training and equipment for disaster preparedness, provides emergency aid, runs flood resilience programs in vulnerable areas like Zeta Municipality and maintains a tracing service to reunite families separated by disaster. 

The Red Cross Montenegro has been pivotal in supporting migrants, asylum seekers and refugees within the country. The organization provides them with food, clothing, hygiene kits, psychosocial care and help accessing health care through community centers near reception facilities, aiming to aid social and economic integration and prevent migrants falling into poverty. As of January 2023, the Red Cross of Montenegro directly supported 3,012 Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war, distributing 2,560 food parcels and hygiene kits and 1,580 sets of clothing, organizing 138 psychosocial support workshops and conducting 197 Montenegrin language classes.

Furthermore, the organization’s youth programs include academic support, peer-led education on topics like HIV/AIDS and intergenerational projects that foster community bonds. The organization also supports older adults and persons with disabilities through home care services and community programs.

Beyond ground-level activities, the Red Cross actively collaborates on national strategies around climate resilience and humanitarian innovation, aiming to integrate climate concerns into future disaster preparedness work. The organization’s Global Climate Resilience Program, designed to scale-up locally-led, climate-smart disaster risk reduction, is projected to reach 500 million people by 2027. These strategies are essential in Montenegro, where rural and low-income communities suffer the greatest impacts from floods, often exacerbating cycles of poverty.

3. FORS Montenegro

Founded in 2006, the Foundation for the Development of Northern Montenegro (FORS) works on regional development, environmental protection and civil society initiatives. Partnering with local authorities and institutions, it promotes environmental protection through sustainable agriculture, tourism and disaster risk reduction. 

One notable initiative that launched in April 2018 is Disaster do not know Borders, which aims to enhance disaster risk reduction capacities in Montenegro and Albania, with a particular focus on flood protection. The project, funded by the European Union through the Cross-Border Cooperation Program Montenegro-Albania 2014-2020, had a total budget of €483,538.35. Main activities within the project included equipment procurement, training emergency responders, updating databases on floods in the region of Shkodra Lake and running educational workshops for school children.

Over the two-year course of the initiative, more than 100 local protection and rescue personnel from Montenegro and Albania received training in flood response, swift water rescue, and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping. Educational initiatives engaged more than 1,000 primary and secondary students in workshops and drawing competitions focused on flood risks and disaster preparedness. Such outreach not only raises awareness, but empowers youth in economically disadvantaged regions where poor infrastructure and limited services make recovery from natural disasters more difficult. Concluding in April 2020, the initiative reached approximately 30,000 citizens. 

4. Riznica Mladosti

Riznica Mladosti, established in 2010, supports the only orphanage in Montenegro, Djeciji Dom Mladost in Bljela. While the orphanage receives government funding, the charity enhances educational outcomes and life skills for children with special needs who cannot attend regular schools. 

Working closely with the orphanage’s staff, the organization provides one-to-one sessions with the children that promote academic development and emotional well-being. This project has seen not only a significant improvement in academic results for the children, but also improved self-sufficiency and ability to access employment when they leave the orphanage. In addition to education, activities like community bazaars help the children develop social and interpersonal skills. Significant improvements in academic results and emotional well-being are critical components in breaking the cycle of poverty for children growing up without stable family support or access to mainstream educational opportunities.

5. World Vision Montenegro

Originally founded as a relief project in 1998 following the Kosovo conflict, World Vision has evolved into a wide-reaching development agency in Montenegro, attending to the physical, social, psychological and financial needs of the poorest sectors of the Yugoslav population. Its primary goal is the sustained well-being of vulnerable children, addressing interconnected challenges like education, clean water, nutrition, disaster management, gender equality and social inclusion and urbanization. By investing in nutrition, clean water and financial inclusion, World Vision directly addresses some root causes of poverty.

As of 2023, an estimated 113,800 individuals have been reached worldwide through World Vision innovation projects. AgroInvest, a partner of World Vision, had loaned approximately $23,921,687 to 12,646 individuals as of 2011, allowing for radically increased milk production, cattle breeding and greenhouse maintenance to alleviate food insecurity. These loans enable low-income families to achieve self-sufficiency, especially in underdeveloped rural areas. Both World Vision and AgroInvest remain highly active in Montenegro to this day. 

Looking Forward

Despite its impressive development, Montenegro continues to face challenges such as regional inequality, social exclusion and vulnerability to changing weather patterns. These five charities operating in Montenegro  ― ranging from long-established institutions to grassroots initiatives ― offer targeted, community-based support that directly combats poverty, promotes inclusion and strengthens long-term resilience. As the country continues to grow, charities operating in Montenegro offer hope and practical support for a more equitable, inclusive and sustainable future. 

– Holly McArthur

Holly is based in Somerset, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Sacha Baron Cohen Donates $500K to Charities in Sudan

Sacha Baron Cohen Donates $500K to Charities in SudanSacha Baron Cohen, born in 1970s London, is a British comedian and actor best known for his politically incorrect social satire. His career gained widespread attention in 2006 with the release of Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. Raised in a devout Jewish household, Cohen often speaks about the importance of Jewish values such as justice, charity and loving-kindness. Judaism teaches that people should treat wealth as a divine gift and use it to help those in need. Cohen reflected these values by donating $500,000 to charities operating in Sudan.

The Crisis in Sudan

The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has persisted for two years. It has forced millions to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighboring countries such as Ethiopia, South Sudan and Chad. Furthermore, ongoing violence has disrupted humanitarian efforts and worsened food insecurity. According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, about 755,000 people now face famine-like conditions. In Darfur, local reports cite ethnic targeting by armed groups. In March 2025, the Sudanese army regained control of the presidential palace in Khartoum, a development that observers hope will shift the trajectory of the conflict.

IRC and Save the Children

In October 2024, Cohen pledged $500,000 to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Save the Children USA. Both organizations provide essential services in Sudan and the surrounding regions. They focus on nutrition, water, sanitation, health care and child protection.

In 2023, Save the Children reached more than 2.4 million people in Sudan. The organization delivered integrated support across food security, education, health care and hygiene. Additionally, the IRC serves displaced populations within Sudan and along its borders, helping families rebuild amid war and hunger. Nearly 500 children have died due to the closure of critical nutrition centers. Cohen’s contribution strengthens these organizations’ capacity to expand their reach.

Cohen’s Statement

In Sacha’s words: “Right now, there are 25.6 million people experiencing hunger in Sudan, a country which is swiftly moving toward the worst famine seen in decades, yet this crisis is receiving alarmingly little attention. This contribution is a small step toward addressing the immense needs in Sudan. I’m pleased to continue to support the IRC and Save the Children, who are delivering essential nutrition, water, sanitation and health services to those most in need, both within Sudan and in neighbouring countries where people are seeking refuge. The Sudanese people urgently need our help and must not be forgotten. I call on friends, colleagues and the general public to join me in contributing whatever you can to this life-saving work. Please consider donating to the IRC and Save the Children.”

Response from IRC Leadership

In response, David Miliband, President and CEO of the IRC, said: “We are deeply grateful to Sacha for this donation and raising awareness about Sudan’s humanitarian crisis. The funds will support the IRC’s lifesaving work in nutrition, water and sanitation and protection for displaced people. Eighteen months of warfare has devastated homes, infrastructure and livelihoods, making Sudan the world’s largest displacement and most severe hunger crisis—yet only half the needed aid has been received. As the disaster continues to spill over into neighboring countries like Chad and South Sudan, the world’s neglect is costing lives. Now, more than ever, influential voices like Sacha’s are crucial to prevent further destruction and loss.”

A Record of Global Giving

Cohen’s support for charities in Sudan follows years of philanthropic engagement. His past contributions funded vaccinations for 287,000 children in Syria, built a maternity hospital in Yemen and supported relief programs in Iraq and Somalia. He also co-founded Stop Hate for Profit, a coalition urging accountability from social media platforms. Cambridge University and the Martin Luther King Center in Atlanta recognized Cohen’s academic work, which explored Black and Jewish cooperation during the U.S. civil rights movement.

Looking Ahead

While conflict continues to displace and endanger millions in Sudan, targeted support from both individuals and institutions could expand access to vital services. Cohen’s donation to charities in Sudan helps reinforce the work of humanitarian organizations and draws global attention to a worsening crisis. As agencies call for broader international support, contributions—both financial and vocal—remain essential in addressing urgent needs and preventing further loss of life.

– Dania Kerim

Dania is based in London and focuses on Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities in South Africa

Charities in South AfricaSouth Africa has faced numerous hardships throughout the years, including violence, famine and widespread poverty, leaving millions in need of support. According to the World Bank, more than half of the population lives in poverty when measured by the $5.50 purchasing power parity (PPP) standard. Further, although apartheid officially ended three decades ago, much of the country’s wealth remains concentrated in the hands of the former ruling white minority. Despite these ongoing challenges, many individuals and organizations continue working tirelessly to address these disparities and support those most in need. Here are five charities actively working in South Africa to provide vital assistance.

Mothers2Mothers

Mothers2Mothers gives mothers who have contracted HIV the opportunity to help their community and others by providing them with jobs as healthcare workers and mentors. It intends to cut down on the gender wage gap and, at the same time, provide essential and much-needed health care to the population of South Africa. Established in 2001, the nonprofit has employed more than 12,000 women living with HIV. In addition to providing employment, the organization is dedicated to slowing the spread of HIV.

ActionAid

ActionAid is a social justice organization that aims to uplift those in poverty and ensure that those who might not have a voice still have equality. As part of a global network operating in 45 countries, including South Africa, ActionAid supports rural communities through development initiatives and advocacy for equal rights. Rather than working in isolation, the organization collaborates with local communities and smaller organizations to promote equality and empower people across South Africa.

Keep The Dream196

Keep The Dream196 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women, children and families in South Africa break the cycle of poverty by equipping them with essential skills and resources to improve their lives. Recognizing the increasing challenges faced by children, such as limited access to education, rising HIV rates and teenage pregnancy, Keep The Dream196 stepped in to address these critical issues and create lasting, positive change in communities.

The organization has successfully kept the children involved in its program out of gangs and away from drug and alcohol abuse, along with reducing the teenage pregnancy rate from 13% to 0.07%.

Feed the Nation

Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in South Africa, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Feed the Nation rose to meet this challenge by delivering essential food and hygiene products to some of the country’s most vulnerable communities. In April 2020, it partnered with organizations like Pick n Pay School Club and Africa Tikkun, successfully distributing 650 tonnes of food. It has provided more than 39 million meals to families and communities in need across South Africa.

Qhubeka

Many communities in South Africa face a lack of reliable transportation, with about eight million children in South Africa walking to school every day. This transportation barrier places a heavy burden on families and individuals, contributing to the cycle of poverty. Qhubeka addresses this issue by offering children the opportunity to earn bikes after completing a safety and training program. The impact is particularly notable among children, as school attendance rates improve significantly when they have easier access to and from school.

Conclusion

These charities are helping to break the cycle of poverty in South Africa by providing essential resources, empowering communities, and fostering lasting change for vulnerable populations.

– Collier Simpson

Collier is based in Savannah, GA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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International Charities Working To Fight Poverty in Ethiopia

Poverty in EthiopiaNearly 70% of people live in multidimensional poverty in Ethiopia, with rural areas the worst affected. Multidimensional poverty encompasses various aspects of life, from food and job insecurity to poor health and living conditions. As such, Ethiopians suffer a crisis of circular poverty, with generations experiencing the same lack of access to clean water, education and life-saving health care. Due to the complexity of poverty in Ethiopia, international support and humanitarian aid play a vital role. Here are three of the international organizations working to make lasting change.

Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps has supported communities across Ethiopia since 2004. Its mission is to provide immediate, long-lasting support that will impact this generation and all those to come. Within 20 years, the organization has helped more than four million people in Ethiopia. Mercy Corps focuses its support on vulnerable communities, particularly marginalized Ethiopians such as women and those living in conflict-affected areas.

For many, support comes in the form of business skills acquisition, help in fostering market relationships and professional mentorship. Training and support like this are given to aid the building of stable economic opportunities throughout the country, allowing individuals to secure reliable employment and income streams.

Immediate support also plays a key role in Mercy Corps’ support, particularly in ensuring access to food for many Ethiopians. While some of its programs deliver agricultural support and climate-resistant seeds to rural areas, others provide immediate relief to Ethiopia’s impoverished people. This includes food deliveries and cash aid to allow families to purchase household necessities and ensure they have access to food.

Tikkun Olam Ventures (TOV)

TOV started with a two-year pilot program in Ethiopia, building upon decades of existing humanitarian work done by The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) across the country. The initiative aims to provide innovative Israeli technology to those still reliant on traditional farming methods and break the cycle of poverty in communities. Since then, tomatoes, onions and hot peppers have been grown using drip irrigation systems, fertilizers and hybrid seeds using this vital technology.

It’s estimated that two-thirds of those living in extreme poverty worldwide make their livelihoods from farming. This global reality is particularly staggering in Ethiopia, where agriculture is the largest economic sector, contributing 43% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Despite its importance, many farmers, especially smallholder and family farmers, remain trapped in a cycle of poverty, relying heavily on their crops for both income and sustenance.

To ensure that farmers can continue improving crop yields and ensure food and income security, TOV has used funding from an Ethiopian bank to purchase technology, seeds and technical support. When loans are repaid, the money returns to the loan fund, allowing more farmers to receive the benefits of Israeli technology.

For-Ethiopia

For-Ethiopia aims to reduce poverty in Ethiopia through education and health services. It believes that real change begins with small developmental projects focused on the community and its residents. The organization’s support includes providing medical equipment and training to health centers and health posts to ensure that everyone has access to clean, sterile environments and experienced health care workers.

A key priority of its aid is responding directly to community needs. For example, when health care workers requested fridges, For-Ethiopia ensured they received them. For-Ethiopia believes ending poverty in Ethiopia begins with access to education and health care, including clean, sanitary water.

Just as it supports health care facilities with essential equipment, it also supplies schools with resources such as books, bathrooms with handwashing stations and more. It credits these efforts with a more than 20% increase in girls’ school enrollment.

For-Ethiopia is currently running the Women and Children First campaign, which focuses on reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the country.

Conclusion

Organizations like Mercy Corps, TOV, and For-Ethiopia are making a significant impact in Ethiopia by addressing poverty through agriculture, education, and health care. Their work demonstrates that lasting change is achievable with global support and community-driven solutions.

– Macy Hall

Macy is based in Dover, Kent, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How Kids Club Kampala Is Helping Vulnerable Children in Uganda

Kids Club KampalaKids Club Kampala is an award-winning charity supporting vulnerable children in the slums of Kampala, the capital of Uganda. The organization aims to transform children’s lives by providing education and safeguarding their childhoods and futures. Uganda, one of the world’s most impoverished countries, has 42% of its population living in poverty, with 3.3 million people residing in slums as of 2012.

The slums are overcrowded, leading to poor sanitation and high crime rates. One in three adults has never received an education. Similarly, more than half of the population struggles to afford food, surviving just one meal daily. Kids Club Kampala currently supports 300,000 people across 12 slum communities in Kampala.

About Kids Club Kampala

Kids Club Kampala was founded in 2007 when two women visited Uganda for seven months and met a local who shared his struggles growing up in a challenging environment. Inspired by his story, the three joined forces, gathered volunteers and launched a charity to improve living conditions in Uganda’s slums.

Kids Club Kampala supports both children and their immediate families. The organization aims to transform children’s lives and lift their communities from poverty. It focuses on helping children aged 3 to 18 living in the slums through four key programs: community outreach, protecting, educating and skilling.

Community Outreach

Kids Club Kampala’s Community Outreach program efforts continue to make a significant impact, engaging children and youth in meaningful programs. In 2024, a total of 64 boys regularly participated in the initiative’s football project, benefiting from field training sessions that foster teamwork and discipline.

Additionally, 696 vulnerable girls have received crucial support through counseling sessions, providing them with guidance and emotional well-being. Every Saturday, 861 children actively join the charity’s Kids Clubs, creating a safe and enriching learning and social interaction space. To address period poverty, it has distributed 2,386 menstrual products to girls who would otherwise lack access, ensuring their dignity and uninterrupted education.

Child Protection

Further, the foundation’s Child Protection program safeguards children in imminent danger, ensuring their safety and well-being. In 2024, it rescued nine children from abuse and abandonment, while its community safeguarding officers responded to 14 child protection cases.

On top of that, the initiative, in efforts to provide stable and nurturing environments, has reintegrated 14 children into families through kinship care. Currently, 84 children are receiving love, care and protection at the Ewafe Project home, offering them a secure and supportive environment.

Access to Education

Kids Club Kampala’s Access to Education program is committed to providing high-quality education to children through sponsorship opportunities. In 2024, 17 new children were enrolled in the Child Sponsorship Project, bringing the total number of sponsored children to 176.

Additionally, 90 children have consistently attended its Encouraging Education Project every day over the past year, ensuring they receive the academic support they need. To further support their well-being, these 90 children have also benefited from daily nutritious meals at the charity’s education center, helping them stay healthy and focused on their studies.

The Skilling Program

Kids Club Kampala’s Skilling program equips individuals with essential business and professional skills to create sustainable livelihoods. Through the program, 12 young people enrolled in a carpentry training course in 2024, gaining practical expertise to secure future employment.

Additionally, 79 students have received business training and support, empowering them with the knowledge to start and manage their own ventures. To further enhance economic opportunities, the program provided training in tailoring and knitting for 132 individuals, enabling them to develop marketable skills that contributed to their financial independence and overall family stability.

Conclusion

Through community outreach, child protection, education access and family strengthening, Kids Club Kampala continues transforming lives. Indeed, the organization empowers vulnerable children and families by providing essential support, education and skill development, fostering a brighter and more sustainable future.

– Jennifer Cermak

Jennifer is based in York, Ontario, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Footprints Family Is Transforming Lives in Shimba Hills

Footprints FamilyIn Shimba Hills, Kenya, many challenges keep families from meeting basic needs. With a population of more than 866,000, Kwale County is Kenya’s 27 most populated counties. Kwale is also one of Kenya’s most impoverished and marginalized counties.

Primarily, the youth of Shimba Hills face a lack of quality schools, limited access to health care and essential medications, poor infrastructure and inhumane living conditions. The primary catalyst of these issues is the lack of government support. Both at the local and national level, there is little to no federal interference to resolve these life-threatening matters.

Poverty in Kenya

The overall poverty rate of Kenya in 2022 was 39.8%, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. In Kwale County, the child poverty headcount rate is 51.1%, with almost 1,000 children below the poverty line.

Rural areas are also hit at an unequal rate compared to urban areas, forcing them into a more difficult cycle of poverty. In 2022, the hardcore poverty rate in rural Kenya was 9.3%, affecting around 3.2 million people. Along with being hit at an unfair rate, rural areas such as Shimba Hills also show weaker recovery from poverty rates yearly, especially post-COVID-19.

Footprints Family

In 2007, Kerry Watson visited East Africa. Her trip turned from simply volunteering to a widespread child poverty activism project in Kwale County. That same year, Watson bought land and created the U.K.-based charity Footprints Family. After opening its doors in 2010, Footprints Family has profoundly helped more than 200 people in the Shimba Hills community.

After nearly two decades, Footprints Family has achieved numerous milestones in supporting Kwale’s most vulnerable children. Hundreds have benefited from free education programs, secure on-site accommodations during school terms and improved access to education through dedicated transportation services.

Along with nurturing relationships among families facing unfortunate situations, Footprints Family offers three programs to target specific problems at home.

Mama Kerry’s Home-Based Care

Introduced in 2019, Mama Kerry’s Home-Based Care program offers essential support tailored to the unique dynamics of children’s families. In partnership with the Children’s Welfare Society of Kenya, the program conducts assessments and provides financial assistance and food packages to those in need. As a result, most children are successfully reintegrated into kinship care, with regular follow-up visits ensuring continued support.

The Mkwakwani Stepping Stone Youth Program

The Mkwakwani Steppingstone Youth Program supports children in their transition to adulthood, equipping them for a brighter future. Upon completing formal education, participants receive continued assistance through counseling, educational programs, cyberlearning centers and more.

The Early Years Academy

In 2021, the nonprofit introduced Early Years Academy to address education and learning poverty by creating a school accessible to children ages 4-11. The staff consists of trained educators and transportation is provided to and from schools in surrounding villages. The extensive grounds allow each child to learn hands-on and make the most of the nature surrounding them.

Conclusion

Footprints Family remains a lifeline for vulnerable children in Shimba Hills, filling the gaps left by inadequate government support. Through education, family reintegration and youth empowerment programs, the organization transforms lives and creates lasting change. With continued support and donations, Footprints Family can expand its impact and provide a brighter future for the children of Kwale County.

– Rachael Wexler

Rachael is based in Chicago IL, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels