Cincinnati, OH, June 6, 2025: Dancy and Harold D’Souza, co-founders of the nonprofit Eyes Open International (EOI), have launched a new initiative in Tanzania aimed at feeding vulnerable children. The Assisi Free Bread House, located in Majevu Village, began operations on June 1, 2025, and now provides free meals to 100 children daily. The project is fully funded by EOI and is part of the organization’s broader mission to support survivors of human trafficking and marginalized communities.
The D’Souzas, who were once victims of labor trafficking and debt bondage in the United States, established Eyes Open International to raise awareness and provide resources for others in similar circumstances. Based in Cincinnati, EOI has grown into an international organization with active projects in over a dozen countries.
The new bread house in Tanzania is dedicated to Sr. Therese Del Gino, a board director of EOI and member of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in Cincinnati. According to Harold D’Souza, Sr. Del Gino played a pivotal role in supporting his family during their most difficult period. Her contribution to the D’Souzas’ journey is acknowledged through the naming of the project.
EOI credits the success of the project to a wide network of supporters and donors. Contributors such as Mary Kate Waggoner, Suresh Nirody, Victor Eilau, Vivek Mandan, members of the Patel and Mehta families, and others helped fund and promote the effort. Local implementation was made possible through collaboration with Sr. Maria Anitha and the Assisi Convent Sisters in Tanzania.
The organization’s model emphasizes small contributions, encouraging donors to give as little as $1 per month to sustain programs like the bread house. Supporters have echoed this appeal, describing the mission as both impactful and accessible.
In addition to Sr. Del Gino, EOI’s board includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Dr. Lara Wilken, Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, Dr. Yvan Demosthenes, and Tracy McGinley. The organization also works with regional directors across the Asia-Pacific, India, Nepal, and Canada.
The D’Souzas have continued to share their personal story to inspire and advocate for survivors worldwide. Once targets of violence—including a failed attempt on Harold D’Souza’s life by a trafficker—the family now focuses on building programs that promote dignity, faith, and long-term recovery.
EOI’s latest initiative in Tanzania reflects its ongoing commitment to “feeding the forgotten,” while highlighting how survivor-led efforts can create meaningful change across borders.
