Our Vision: Dignity and Reintegration
"Regardless of what the challenges are, we’re going to help as many as we can while we’re here physically on earth."
Continuing the Legacy
Charly Mumbere Nianza
Charly is the owner and son of founder Charles Nianza. Having grown up in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Charly witnessed firsthand his parents' radical hospitality—providing shelter and education to those he believed were blood relatives, only to discover later they were neighbors taken off the streets.
A former 2005 Rockingham County & Harrisonburg Boys and Girls Club "Youth of the Year," Charly has made it his mission to bring the foundation to the public here in the United States, ensuring the flame his father started continues to burn bright for those less fortunate.
The Founder
Charles Niansa
The visionary who started it all in Kinshasa. Charles built the Nianza Foundation on a bedrock of pastoral theology and a refusal to let financial difficulties stop the work of human dignity.
"I’m not a perfect man, but I understand that when someone needs help, even if it is your last piece of bread, it can be shared. After consuming that bread followed by water, we live to fight another day."
We'd love to hear from you
Have questions about our initiatives or want to discuss partnership opportunities? Reach out directly to our team.
Avenue Lutondo Number 64. QNgoma-Kinkusa. Kinshasa/NGALIENMA-BINZA-UPN
Our Calling
Nianza Foundation initiative is not only something we believe in; it is something we know is necessary for those who are less fortunate than the rest of us. We provide safe and sustainable housing solutions, offering temporary shelter and essential services that act as a bridge from the street to stability.
Our Model: Viability at Scale
Scale and Capital
Public funding is essential to making the shelter project viable at scale. It provides the necessary capital for land acquisition and staffing that private donations alone rarely cover.
Partnerships and Sustainability
Government partnership unlocks essential services (health, protection, social services) and ensures the shelter is sustainable and accountable.
Meet Our Facility & Children
A transparent look at daily life, current structural frameworks, and the beautiful kids at the heart of the Nianza Foundation.
Main Dormitory Structural Frame
The Children Gathering
Temporary Classroom Layout
Morning Educational Framework
Sanitary Blocks Progress
Temporary Classroom Layout
Lecture with Professor
Waterline Check
Sanctuary Exterior Courtyard
Our Core Services
We provide a comprehensive pathway to stability, dignity, and independence for vulnerable populations in the DRC.
Dignified Shelter & Basic Needs
Temporary Safe Housing
Providing secure, weather-resistant shelter units for families, ensuring immediate relief from street living and exposure to the elements.
Essential Infrastructure
Access to clean, potable water, sanitation facilities, drainage, and reliable electricity, upholding a standard of basic human health.
Resource Provision
Coordinating with partners to provide meals and basic non-food items like clothing and hygiene kits to ensure immediate stability.
Pathways to Stability & Reintegration
Beyond immediate shelter, we provide the tools necessary for long-term independence.
Health Outreach
On-site health checks, medical referrals, and social services for mental health.
Case Management
Personalized plans focusing on recovery, empowerment, and individual stability.
Job Placement
Vocational training and job placement to ensure long-term economic independence.
Housing Transition
Support services focused on transitioning residents into permanent, sustainable housing.