Community supper to support school expansion in Democratic Republic of Congo  – PembinaValleyOnline.com

Hands Canada is inviting the public to a fundraising supper in support of education and basic needs for students in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with ties back to work originating in Winkler. 

Hands Canada, a volunteer-run group chaired by Harold Hamm, is hosting a community supper on May 7th during the Thresherman’s Reunion. The meal will run from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with both eat-in and take-out options available, and will be offered by donation. The menu includes baked ham, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and dessert. 

Where the money goes 

All proceeds from the event will support a school located just outside Bukavu in the DRC, which Hands Canada has been helping to build and operate over the past several years. 

The school currently serves roughly 700 students, with tuition set at about $2.50 per child per month. According to Hamm, many families are unable to pay the full amount at once, instead contributing through small installments. The school also operates a feeding program that provides porridge three days per week, costing roughly $900 per month to run. 

The organization has helped fund multiple building projects at the school, including brick classroom structures and expanded upper levels, as enrollment has steadily grown. In recent years, the school has expanded into higher grades, with leaders now discussing the possibility of adding Grade 12 in the future. 

Related stories:

Funds raised through the May 7th supper will also help address growing infrastructure needs, including a partially built community hall that may eventually serve as additional classroom space or a revenue-generating facility. 

Organizers say continued support is critical as enrolment increases and the school commits to not turning away students who lack the means to pay. 

— with files from Hands Canada