We For Help’s ‘Shape Their Future’ Initiative: A Beacon of Hope for Gicumbi’s Low-Income Families

Residents of Bukure Sector in Gicumbi District are expressing deep appreciation for the “Shape Their Future” program, an initiative by the We For Help Organization aimed at supporting children from low-income families. Launched on February 16, 2025, the program is already making a significant impact by providing essential educational support, including school supplies, uniforms, and shoes.

Parents and guardians have welcomed the initiative, recognizing how it helps children overcome financial barriers that hinder their academic progress. Beyond education, the program also provides assistance with school feeding and health insurance, ensuring that beneficiaries receive comprehensive support for a brighter future.

During the launch event, the first four top performers and their parents were rewarded with school supplies and goats as a token of appreciation for their efforts and dedication.

One of the beneficiaries, Annonciata NGABIRANO, from Karenge Cell, Bukure Sector, shared her gratitude for the assistance provided. She has two of her four children benefiting from the program and expressed her satisfaction with the immediate impact.

“Since ‘We For Help’ arrived in our community, we’ve received tremendous support. The two of my children who are part of the project received notebooks, shoes, and uniforms right away,” she said.

She added, “Not only did the project immediately provide them with notebooks, shoes, and uniforms, but they also assured us that they will cover school feeding and health insurance for the children involved.”

She continued that her child, Fabrice, had excelled in school after joining the program. “He passed with high marks, and I was even rewarded with a goat for his success. This has brought so much hope and encouragement to our family,” she said.

Another beneficiary, Josephine MUKAMUREGO, from the same sector, praised the project for the positive changes it brought to her children’s academic performance.

“After my child was selected, I put in the effort to support him, encouraging him to revise and study hard. As a result, he became the top student in his class,” she said.

 “I am extremely grateful to the project for the continuous support. It has made a significant difference in our lives,” she added.

Clemance TUYISHIMIRE, founder of the We For Help Organization, explained the reasoning behind selecting Gicumbi District as the program’s starting point.

“We chose to begin in Gicumbi due to the limited support available in rural areas near Kigali. Many initiatives tend to overlook these regions,” she stated.

She added, “Currently, we are supporting 20 children, but we are looking at ways to expand and reach other parts of the country.”

Tuyishimire also emphasized the organization’s commitment to identifying and nurturing children’s talents beyond academics.

“While we focus on bright students from underprivileged backgrounds, we are also considering a talent development program for children who may not excel in school but have other skills and abilities,” she noted.

She urged parents to remain actively involved in their children’s education, stating, “Even though the government and organizations like We For Help provide support, parents still have a crucial role to play in their child’s success. Let’s work together to ensure their future.”

Ben Filos MUKAMA, the representative of Bukure Sector, thanked the organization for its dedication to the community.

“The work that ‘We For Help’ is doing should be an example for all Rwandans. This initiative aligns with our district’s goal of fighting poverty and improving the lives of our citizens,” he said.

He also encouraged the parents who received goats as rewards to view them as a step toward breaking the cycle of poverty.

Warren Jack Kabahena, Deputy Head Teacher in charge of studies at G.S. Bukure, reported that the “Shape Their Future” program had made a significant impact on the students.

“The children who were struggling academically due to financial challenges are now thriving. They attend school regularly, with the motivation and resources they need to succeed,” he said.

“Even though only 20 children are currently supported, this initiative has inspired other parents to encourage their children to perform well so they, too, can benefit in the future,” he added.

Kabahena also noted a reduction in school dropouts, attributing it to the encouragement and support provided by the program.

Through the “Shape Their Future” program, We For Help is not only transforming individual lives but also fostering a stronger, more resilient community where every child has the opportunity to succeed. By addressing educational barriers and nurturing personal growth, the organization is helping shape a brighter future for the youth in Gicumbi and beyond.

Founded on October 26, 2020, We For Help is a non-profit organization committed to empowering underprivileged children through access to quality education, mentorship, and essential resources. With a dedicated team of over 100 young individuals, the organization’s mission is to break the cycle of poverty and help children realize their full potential.