Giving a Hand. Building Hope.
HANDS Canada exists to help create the conditions in which children, families and communities can grow in knowledge, dignity, faith and opportunity.
Who We Are
HANDS Canada is a nonprofit organization connected to Canadians who believe that practical compassion can help create lasting change. Our work is centred in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where HANDS helped establish and expand a school for children who might otherwise have limited access to basic educational, social and spiritual development.
We do not see education as an isolated service. A healthy school also needs safe facilities, water, electricity, nourishment, learning tools, opportunities for community life and a moral foundation that teaches respect and service. Our support therefore addresses both learning and the environment in which learning takes place.
What HANDS Means
Hope for All Nations Development & Sustainability
The word HANDS also reflects our calling to reach out and help. We recognize the joy Christ gives when He leads us, and we seek to extend that same spirit of care by placing our hands in service to others.
Our Story
The first phase of school construction took place during 2014 and 2015. On September 5, 2016, the school opened its doors for the first day of classes and welcomed 120 children in Grades 1 through 5.
As the years progressed, additional classrooms were added and the school expanded into higher grades. By September 2024, enrolment had reached 435 students in Grades 1 through 10. The brochure recorded plans to introduce Grade 11 in September 2025, marking another step toward a complete secondary-school pathway.
Growth has included more than enrolment. HANDS Canada has helped provide water and electrical power, laptop computers, restroom facilities, breakfast porridge three days a week and funding for school events. Each improvement has contributed to a more functional and supportive learning environment.
Our Vision
We envision a peaceful and dignified community where education, diverse skills, employment opportunity and safety are strengthened across social and community structures. We want communities to be culturally rich, resourceful and equipped to create a positive environment for the next generation.
Our vision is grounded in partnership and sustainability. We support initiatives that encourage self-sustainability, mutual respect, responsible use of resources and fair treatment for every person.
Our Mission
Our mission is to offer educational opportunity to children who may not otherwise have access to basic social and spiritual development. Through Christian service and practical partnership, we seek to strengthen the foundations on which healthy communities are built, so that God-given abilities can be discovered and allowed to flourish.
Our Christian Foundation
The work of HANDS Canada is inspired by the compassion of Jesus Christ and His welcome to children. We believe every child has value, purpose and gifts worthy of care and development.
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Matthew 19:14
Values That Guide Our Work
Compassion: We respond where a practical helping hand is needed.
Dignity: We honour the worth, culture and potential of every child and community.
Education: We believe knowledge and skills can open pathways to stronger futures.
Faith: Christian values shape our commitment to service, respect and spiritual growth.
Partnership: We work with people and organizations that share a commitment to responsible, lasting impact.
Sustainability: We favour initiatives that strengthen local capacity and long-term self-sufficiency.
Put Hope Within Reach
Every gift, prayer and partnership helps HANDS Canada continue building an environment where children can learn with dignity and communities can move toward a more sustainable future.
