For the past 1.5 years, Creative Learning Haven's community libraries in Uganda's Imvepi and Rhino refugee settlements have provided free access to books, literacy classes, creative activities, and learning opportunities for thousands of people.
Together, we have:
- Reached over 2,000 learners
- Brought more than 3,000 books to the settlements
- Employed 15+ community members
- Created the only community libraries in Imvepi and Rhino with free book borrowing, free literacy classes, and free creative activities
Today, we urgently need funds to keep the libraries open. If we don't reach our fundraising goal by the end of year, we won't be able to keep the libraries open due to the cost of rent and Wifi.
100% of your donation fuels our monthly operating costs and keeps our communities learning during this critically difficult period where funding for refugee camps has dried up and left most people without rations, jobs, or quality educational opportunities.
Despite these challenges, our dedicated librarians keep our libraries running every day. Even though they have their own family and personal responsibilities, they dedicate their time to welcome readers, teach literacy classes, support students, organize activities, maintain the books and materials, and ensure that children, youth, and families always have a place to learn and de-stress.
Our fundraising goal guarantees that Creative Learning Haven libraries can stay open.
If you are able to, please consider making a small monthly donation to ensure the long-term sustainability of our libraries. We're fighting for the right of refugee communities in Uganda to learn independently and empower their futures.
Our libraries are full and lively each day. Children rush in to read and paint. Students borrow textbooks and spend their days studying during school breaks. Women learn crafts to develop businesses and take literacy classes so they can support their children's learning. Schools regularly turn to our libraries for support because there are so few educational resources available.
"Art takes away my stress" - one of our youth artists at CLH Imvepi.
Creative Learning Haven's work has become even more urgent as refugee communities face severe funding cuts. Food rations have been reduced, schools are struggling with overcrowded classrooms and teacher shortages, and many organizations have been forced to scale back or close programs entirely.
Peter Hardrock, CLH's Imvepi Team Lead, says:
"We don't want this generation of South Sudanese, Congolese, or Ugandans to miss the opportunity of education."
We believe that learning should not stop because of displacement, poverty, or conflict.
A bit more about who we serve
Creative Learning Haven supports learners in Uganda's Imvepi and Rhino refugee settlements, home to more than 200,000 refugees and host-community members.
Most families have limited access to books, internet, or educational materials at home. Many learners have experienced years of educational disruption due to conflict and displacement. Our libraries provide free access to resources, mentorship, creativity, and opportunities to continue learning.
As one community member, Enock, shared:
"When you now have the knowledge to read and write, it's better for you to teach yourself ... It can build you faster than waiting for teachers."
Knowledge is power. Knowledge is peace. Together, we can ensure that learning continues for refugee and host-community families in Imvepi and Rhino.
Thank you for helping keep these libraries open. Iyete! Shukran!