Children Reliefs Services

About Us

Our Story

Children Relief Service (CRS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable children and youth, with a strong focus on refugees, especially girls and young women, in rural and underserved areas. We committed to safeguarding and uplifting vulnerable children, particularly those living in refugee settings and surrounding host communities.

Mission

To protect, empower, and uplift vulnerable children and youth especially those affected by displacement and poverty, through child-centered programs that promote safety, education, and holistic development in refugee and host communities.

Vision

A world where every child and young person, regardless of their background or circumstance, grows up safe, educated, and empowered to reach their full potential and transform their community and empowered to break the cycle of poverty and inequality.

Core Values

  • Child-Centeredness

    We place the dignity, safety, and voice of every child at the center of all we do.

  • Protection & Safeguarding

    We are committed to creating safe environments, free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

  • Empowerment

    We equip children and youth with knowledge, skills, and opportunities to build better futures.

  • Community Engagement

    We collaborate with families, schools, faith groups, and local leaders to build strong, protective communities.

  • Integrity & Accountability

    We uphold the highest standards of transparency, responsibility, and ethical practice in all our work.

  • Resilience & Hope

    We nurture hope and strength in children and communities affected by adversity and displacement.

  • Equity & Inclusion

    We serve all children and families equally, regardless of gender, nationality, religion, or background.

founder and director of crs

About the founder

Roger Tiemuka Shamavu is a is the Founder and Executive Director of Children Relief Service (CRS), a Comunity Based nonprofit organization operating in Malawi.

Roger is a humanitarian leader and child protection advocate, originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo and currently based in Malawi.

Through CRS, Roger works to improve the lives of vulnerable children and youth by providing:

  • Education and literacy programs
  • Child protection and safeguarding initiatives
  • Gender-based violence (GBV) response and prevention
  • Vocational and life skills training
  • Youth empowerment and psychosocial support

He is widely recognized for his grassroots leadership and commitment to empowering refugee communities—particularly girls, teen mothers, and school dropouts—through practical, sustainable programs. Roger is also known for raising awareness on issues affecting refugees, including hunger, education gaps, and child vulnerability, and actively engages with local and international partners to find solutions.

His work reflects a deep belief in “Protecting Children, Transforming the Community,” the slogan of CRS.

Impacts

4200 +

Children, youth, and community members impacted in Dzaleka

600 +

Youth trained in leadership, life skills, community service.

1300 +

benefited from educational support programs

380 +

Particularly girls, with practical skills empowered in Vocational training.

Trusted by

----- Testimonails

Testimonails

What They Say About Us

Before joining the Girls' Empowerment sessions, I thought my future was already decided. But through the mentorship and business training, I started my own small tailoring business. Now I earn money, help my siblings with school fees, and speak up with confidence. I feel powerful, like I matter

Amina

17, refugee from Burundi

When I experienced abuse, I didn’t know where to turn. The GBV program gave me a safe space to speak out and receive counseling. I’m healing now, and I’ve learned that I’m not alone. I want other girls to know they deserve safety and respect.

Grace

19, Malawian host community member

I used to think it was normal for children to be punished harshly. But after attending the child protection campaign, I understand my rights. I even spoke at our school about creating safer spaces. Now, adults listen to us more.

Joseph

16, refugee from DR Congo

I never went to school before coming to Dzaleka. The early learning center helped me learn English and read books for the first time. Now I dream of becoming a teacher so I can help other children like me.

Fatima

15, refugee from Rwanda