Care continues for survivors of rape, despite funding cuts

In Uganda, rape remains a crisis in the shadows – one that’s underreported, poorly prosecuted, and deeply stigmatized. Behind the statistics – or often in the absence of them – countless voices are silenced by fear, shame and societal rejection. 

“There’s a belief that women invite rape – by how they dress, speak, or behave,” says Hellen Lunkuse Waiswa Tanyinga, Executive Director of Rape Hurts Foundation (RHF), an Alongside Hope partner. “These harmful narratives make it nearly impossible for survivors to seek help without being blamed.”  

RHF is on the frontlines of this important justice issue, offering emergency response services, vocational training, relocation support, legal aid, and psychological counselling for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), human trafficking, and modern-day slavery.

But 2025 has brought challenges. The organization aimed to support 125,000 women and children this year but now, that vision hangs in the balance due to disruption of funds from USAID. Through the new Resilience Fund, Alongside Hope is augmenting its financial support of RHF’s existing program to help fill the funding gap with an additional $25,000. The fund is supporting partners like RHF, whose programs were put in jeopardy with cuts to USAID. Gifts made to the fund by June 30, 2025 will be matched, up to $250,000.

Each year, an estimated 123,000 cases of rape or attempted rape occur in Uganda, yet fewer than 100 ever reach a courtroom. Survivors face huge barriers: many are not believed, blamed, or silenced by cultural stigma. In some areas, even speaking out can mean being rejected by one’s family or punished by the law itself. If a woman isn’t seen as “pure” or has a so-called bad reputation, her chances of being heard shrink further. In the most extreme cases, survivors risk being prosecuted instead of protected. 

“We’ve outlined a plan to deliver lifesaving support,” says Tanyinga. “Every dollar counts. It means shelter for the homeless, therapy for the broken, medical aid for the wounded, and dignity for those society wants to forget.” 

The budget includes: 

• Personnel and training – Counselors, support staff and training resources. 
• Shelter and accommodation  – Rental costs, utilities, and basic furniture.
• Medical an psychosocial support – Medical supplies, therapy sessions, and referrals. 
• Food and nutrition – Basic food supplies and nutritional supplements. 
• Awareness and outreach – Campaign materials and transportation for outreach. 
• Administration – Office costs, communication, and contingency. 

“It’s not just about support,” Tanyinga adds. “It’s about recognizing the humanity and the pain behind every case. These are our mothers, sisters, daughters. And they deserve better.” 

How you can help:

Please pray for everyone who is affected by these devastating cuts to USAID, and the survivors of sexual assault in Uganda and the people who support them.

Give to the Resilience Fund online, or by phone at 1-866-308-7973. Or mail a cheque to Alongside Hope, 80 Hayden Street, 3rd Floor, Toronto, ON, Canada, M4Y 3G2. Please indicate “Resilience Fund” in the memo field. Gifts made before June 30, 2025 will be matched, up to $250,000.