Safe Hostel for Girls and Women
In rural Chipata, Zambia, many girls face long, unsafe journeys to school, early marriage, and extreme poverty. As a result, they often drop out before completing their education or gaining practical skills.
To address this, the Daughters of Mary Immaculate (DMI) are building a 13-room hostel that will safely house 50 girls per year. The hostel will be centrally located to minimize commute times and reduce the risk of harassment and exploitation. It will offer more than shelter—it will provide a stable environment where girls can study, learn life skills, and grow in confidence.
Since 2008, DMI has been serving Zambia’s most vulnerable communities, especially women and girls, with programs focused on education, development, and empowerment. Their work in Chipata aligns with national priorities and global goals for gender equality and access to education.
The hostel will include bedrooms, common areas for meals and training, and space for small-scale farming and income-generating activities like tailoring and baking. Girls will receive support from trained staff and mentors while contributing to the sustainability of the home through skill-building programs.
Funding Need: $70,000
Local Contribution: $3,000
Total Cost: $73,000