Many orphans and families were left vulnerable from the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi community. In addition to healing from a traumatic past, numerous families in the rural areas of Rwanda struggle with extreme poverty. Those living in rural areas rely on farming, yet often have an insufficient amount of land, with the problem of soil degradation that does not produce a reliable crop. Children are burdened with the responsibility of running the household and assisting in earning income for their siblings or family. In these circumstances, the dropout rate and the rate of children unable to access education are high. In schools, children often do not receive adequate learning material. Adolescents experience a lack of food security, support systems, and protection from exploitation due to poverty and the after-effects of the genocide.

AEBR, in partnership with CBM, strives to provide these vulnerable children with support, education, and hope that comes from the gospel proclaimed through word and deed.