Care for babies & empower young mothers in Nairobi

Summary

Single Mothers Association of Kenya plans to improve the financial and physical status of women and children in Starehe constituency, Nairobi, through the provision of vocational training and day care facilities.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Steady employment and quality, affordable day care is difficult to find in Nairobi and young mothers often resort to leaving children unattended at home, taking them to work in an unsafe environment or to day care with poor, unhygienic facilities. In order for these women to make a living they need a safe place to leave their children but low incomes mean that this is very challenging for them. We believe that all children have a right to equal, quality care regardless of their background

How will this project solve this problem?

SMAK will expand and upgrade current day care facilities to provide Early Childhood Development teaching and nutritious meals for children. This will allow mothers either to go to work or access vocational training through our own catering project. Additionally we will hold workshops on nutrition, family planning and other areas of importance to young mothers to empower them to make informed and sustainable choices for a healthy lifestyle.

Potential Long Term Impact

In the short term, up to 25 mothers at a time will be able to access affordable, quality care for their children. However long term benefits will include increased knowledge of nutrition and basic health care which will ensure the healthy development of local children. Women will be better equipped to sustain themselves and their families and greater knowledge of HIV/AIDS and family planning will reduce the incidence of HIV and teenage pregnancy in the area.

Project Message

I am happy to leave my child at SMAK so I can make money for my family. I hope to learn more about child care, nutrition and family planning from the new workshops
- Sophie, Mother of child attending SMAK day care