GRACE is dedicated to giving these gentle giants a second chance by providing a safe sanctuary where they can heal, thrive and, if possible, return to the wild.
The Eastern Lowland Gorilla population has declined by 60% in recent decades due to habitat destruction, poaching and illegal pet trade. GRACE operates a sanctuary that houses and rehabilitates rescued Eastern Lowland Gorillas confiscated from illegal trade. Thirteen gorillas currently live at the sanctuary, but it has capacity for up to thirty. The gorillas reside in large, semi-natural enclosures where they can engage in natural behaviours such as foraging and climbing. Whenever possible, rehabilitated gorillas are reintroduced into protected forest areas.
"Every gorilla matters. At GRACE, we prioritise each individual’s welfare and rehabilitation. Thank you to the QATO Foundation for your vital support in caring for these critically endangered animals," says Katie Fawcett, Ph.D., Executive Director, GRACE.
Beyond providing direct care for rescued gorillas, the sanctuary also serves as a key deterrent against wildlife crime. Having a designated rehabilitation centre strengthens law enforcement efforts by providing a place to house confiscated animals, thereby discouraging illegal wildlife trafficking.
GRACE works on multiple fronts to protect the Eastern Lowland Gorilla. In addition to running the sanctuary, they engage in local, community-led habitat conservation efforts, creating forest corridors to safeguard critical habitats. They also collaborate with local communities to promote sustainable land use and provide educational programmes for children and adults on the importance of gorilla conservation.
The QATO Foundation has supported GRACE to maintain and upgrade gorilla facilities and provide medical care and food for the rescued gorillas at the sanctuary. With this support, GRACE can continue its essential mission of protecting and rehabilitating these endangered animals.
GRACE is an American NGO founded in 2008. Its mission is to protect the Eastern Lowland Gorilla population, endemic to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. GRACE runs a sanctuary where gorillas live in a semi-wild environment. The organisation also works on forest conservation and community education programmes and collaborates with Congolese authorities to strengthen anti-poaching efforts and combat illegal wildlife trade.
