Momentum in Motion: A Pivotal Season for the Esther Fund

At the Esther Fund, we often talk about the power of local leadership—and right now,

we are seeing that power in action.

Across Sankuru, two health areas in particular are demonstrating what is possible when committed leaders are equipped to solve problems on the ground: Edinga, a health area serving approximately 5,000 babies and children under five years old and led by Jocelyn, and Kalemie, a health area serving approximately 7,000 babies and children and led by Benjamin.

Leadership That Delivers

Jocelyn and Benjamin are not simply implementing programs—they are actively

problem solving in real time. Whether addressing gaps in care delivery, mobilizing

communities, or adapting to rapidly changing health conditions, they are showing what

true ownership looks like.

Their leadership is producing tangible results.

In March alone, more than 4,000 preventive services were delivered across these

areas. In addition, nearly 400 children received treatment for illness. These numbers

represent more than metrics—they reflect lives protected, families supported, and

communities strengthened. Without these programs, none of the services would have

been provided. Based on the area’s track record before Esther, we probably saved

about 10 children’s lives!

Jocelyn and I pose in front of the Edinga health center

A Critical Moment for Child Health

This progress comes at a pivotal time. A measles epidemic has begun spreading in other parts of Sankuru, tragically claiming the lives of many children under five. At the same time, a new opportunity has emerged: the malaria vaccine became available in March.

While this is a major breakthrough, it also brings new challenges. The vaccine requires

four doses, demanding consistency, follow-up, and deep trust between healthcare

teams and the communities they serve.

This is where the strength of Esther Fund’s model becomes clear. Because of the

relationships built by leaders like Jocelyn and Benjamin, communities are more

engaged, more responsive, and more willing to return for ongoing care.

Growing Trust, Expanding Impact

Word is spreading about the life-saving work of the Esther Project.

Families are increasingly seeking out Esther Prevention and Esther Care services.

Communities are recognizing the difference—consistent care, responsive leadership,

and a system that prioritizes both prevention and treatment.

This growing trust drives our most important indicator of success: more healthy children!

Looking Ahead

We are encouraged not only by what is happening now, but by what is coming next.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we are approaching a milestone: soon, we

expect to have the resources to launch work in another health area, our third this year,

led by another outstanding local leader.

This is how transformation scales—not through rapid expansion, but through careful,

growth in relationships rooted in proven leadership.

Join Us in This Work

This is a defining moment.

The needs are urgent. The opportunities are real. And the model is working.

Your continued support makes this possible. As we respond to immediate threats like

measles, roll out life-saving interventions like the malaria vaccine, and expand into new

communities, your giving fuels every step forward.

We also invite you to explore our new website at estherfund.net, where you can learn

more about our work, our partners, and the impact you are helping create.

Together, we are building something that lasts—healthier communities, stronger care

systems, and a future where more children enjoy healthy, happy lives.

Thank you for being part of the Esther Fund story.