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A Volcano Eruption in Congo Left Behind Massive Damage

A Volcano Eruption in Congo Left Behind Massive Damage

A volcano eruption in eastern Congo has left residents searching for missing loved ones and buried hundreds of buildings. 

On May 22, Nyiragongo, an active volcano on the edge of Goma erupted, causing lava to inch closer and closer to a city of roughly two million people. While the lava flowed away from the city, the damage left in its path has resulted in at least 15 deaths. The night of the eruption resulted in terror and chaos as residents were ordered to evacuate and couldn’t return until morning. 

Among the damage was the destruction of the nursery and primary school built by Love Does and Justice Rising. The schools served 250 students and eight faculty members who were all affected by the destruction. 

“Hundreds of thousands of people have evacuated and 20,000+ are estimated to be homeless,” wrote Love Does in a recent update. “More than half a million people have lost access to safe water as the lava has destroyed one of the most important water supply sources. Since so many people are trying to evacuate, there is severe traffic which is furthering the shortage of food and water.”

Both Love Does and Justice Rising are working together to raise donations for those affected by the destruction. So far, one other school location has opened up to host 1,500 people who need a safe, warm place to stay. Additionally, hazard pay has been distributed to over 100 teachers and staff members of the schools. 

Love Does is still collecting support online, which goes to providing clean water, sanitation facilities, food and more for the residents of Goma. 

“If you would like to respond during this challenging time, we would love for you to donate to help  support our teachers and staff, and their families, who lost their school and community to the disaster. Some also lost their homes,” said Love Does on their website. “Our team will continue to assess the damage and your donation will go toward supporting the most pressing needs. We hope to rebuild in the future so any contribution is appreciated!”

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