Eric Nyongolo was just 19 years old when he fled his home in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2014. He carried with him the trauma of witnessing his mother’s murder and his sister’s rape at the hands of rebel forces. The DRC has endured decades of conflict marked by widespread human rights violations, where violence against civilians—especially by armed groups—has been all too common.
As rebel groups began recruiting young men to join in the violence, Eric faced an impossible choice. He knew participation was not aligned with his faith or values. As he later shared, “I left my home country…and took up refugee status in Kenya in the Kakuma refugee camp.”
Life in Kakuma was difficult, but it was also where hope quietly took root. Eric met his wife, Zaina, there. He found work, completed training, and became certified in Water Management and Technologies. Still, despite these achievements, Eric and Zaina’s growing family regularly faced food shortages and uncertainty.
In 2017, seeking better opportunities, they moved to Nairobi. Yet even in the city, food insecurity and financial strain remained constant companions.
A Family’s Story Crosses Borders
While Eric and Zaina struggled to provide for their children, Zaina’s sister was starting a new life after being resettled as a refugee in Canada. From there, she shared the story of the family she had left behind—her sister, brother‑in‑law, and their children still facing hardship in Nairobi.
In April 2019, the Nyongolo family’s story was shared during a congregational meeting at Zion United Reformed Church in Sheffield, Ontario. The church had never sponsored a refugee family before, and the question before them was both simple and profound:
Should we sponsor the Nyongolo family?
The answer was unanimous: yes.
A Community Steps Forward
As the sponsorship process began, members of the congregation formed a 10‑person sponsorship committee. Each person took on responsibilities to support the family’s future—housing, healthcare, transportation, finances, employment, education, emotional support, and legal documentation.
Committee members Ed and Wilma Gringhuis reflected on the decision:
“Hearing the narratives and experiences of our particular family spurred us on to do everything possible to bring this family to [a place of safety] as soon as possible.”
They also emphasized the importance of guidance and partnership throughout the process:
“World Renew was absolutely incredible with all the resources and help given to us in this process.”
The sponsorship was a private sponsorship, meaning the church committed to providing financial and relational support for the family’s first year after arrival.
Reflecting on the experience, Ed and Wilma shared:
“The overall sponsorship experience has been very positive for our church. We encourage other churches to take up sponsorship… The Lord will bless your efforts.”
New Beginnings and Lasting Hope
On December 12, 2019, the sponsorship committee welcomed Eric, Zaina, and their five children at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Zaina’s sister was there too—reuniting with family after years of separation.
Ed and Wilma later recalled:
“What a joyful meeting when the family arrived—it was a moment filled with gratitude and praise to God for His goodness.”
Today, the Nyongolo family is building a new life marked by stability and hope. Eric describes his experience simply:
“[It] is so peaceful and secure—compared to where we came from.”
Eric is employed in manufacturing. Zaina is continuing her education through English‑language studies, and the children are settling into school. Eric recently earned his driver’s license and looks ahead with optimism.
“In [this place], life is good,” he says.
Millions of refugees around the world are still waiting for safety, community, and a chance to rebuild. Stories like the Nyongolos’ show what becomes possible when people of faith choose compassion and action. Will you join World Renew today in welcoming our neighbours?
