In the Face of Funding Crisis, 19th Annual African Gala Held to Raise Crucial Support
Microfinancing Partners in Africa to Host 19th Annual African Gala Amid International Aid Crisis / Photos provided by Microfinancing Partners
In the face of an escalating humanitarian funding crisis, Microfinancing Partners in Africa (MPA) is stepping up its efforts to meet urgent needs across Sub-Saharan Africa. On May 3, 2025, MPA will host its 19th Annual African Gala at the Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis to raise crucial support.
Donors at the Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis watch the after-dinner program at the Microfinancing Partners annual African Gala.
A proposed funding freeze could slash nearly $6.5 billion in international aid to the region — drastically reducing access to food, shelter, and medical services in refugee camps and already vulnerable communities. MPA’s trusted partners, including the Sisters of the Sacred Heart in Northern Uganda, are already witnessing the devastating effects of these cuts, with refugee food rations reduced to critical levels. Families with working parents and school-age children are among the hardest hit.
Refugees in Northern Uganda cope with devastating conditions. MPA’s trusted partners, including the Sisters of the Sacred Heart in Northern Uganda, are already witness the effects of these cuts, with refugee food rations reduced to critical levels.
MPA staff recently returned from a four-week visit to Northern Uganda, bringing back firsthand accounts of the deepening crisis.
“The need we saw is overwhelming,” said Christian Wargo, MPA’s Executive Director. “These are not numbers. These are families—mothers, children, and entire communities at risk.”
With traditional aid pipelines drying up, MPA’s mission has never been more vital.
“This is where MPA steps in,” says Wargo. “We rely solely on the generosity of individuals. As larger programs lose funding, our microfinancing efforts become lifelines.”
Through its 19th Annual African Gala, MPA is mobilizing supporters to respond. Proceeds will go directly toward sustainable microfinance initiatives that empower refugee families and rural entrepreneurs to build their own livelihoods—creating lasting solutions in the face of disappearing aid.
At Microfinancing Partners in Africa (MPA), their mission is to empower individuals in Sub-Saharan Africa to lift themselves out of extreme poverty through sustainable microfinancing programs. By providing access to financial services and education, they enable entrepreneurs to create lasting change in their communities.
This powerful evening of purpose and celebration will support sustainable microfinancing programs in Sub-Saharan Africa as traditional sources of international aid face major disruptions.
The African Gala historically brings together over 400 passionate supporters for an unforgettable evening filled with inspiration, impact, and action. Guests will enjoy a gourmet dinner, cocktails, compelling guest presentations from Africa, and an exhilarating live auction—all in support of life-changing microfinance programs.
Event Details:
Saturday, May 3, 2025 — Chase Park Plaza, St. Louis, MO
6:00 PM – Cocktail Hour
7:00 PM – Dinner & Program
Tickets: $250 per person
The diner at the Chase raises much-needed funding for the cause.
Whether it’s helping refugee families, supporting safe medical systems for birthing initiatives, or empowering small farmers with livestock, MPA’s programs are proof that small loans create big change.
Tickets are still available but are expected to sell out. Be part of this transformative evening and help communities across Africa move from survival to sustainability.
To purchase tickets or learn more, visit: microfinancingafrica.org
About Microfinancing Partners in Africa
Microfinancing Partners in Africa is a St. Louis-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals in Sub-Saharan Africa to lift themselves out of extreme poverty through sustainable microfinance programs. Learn more at www.microfinancingafrica.org