Educate and Feed 85 At-Risk Kids in Kibera, Kenya

Amanda and her twin sister Agnes were born healthy, four years ago. Their parents were happy to receive their bundles of joy. Last year, Amanda got sick. The doctors diagnosed her and realized she had meningitis. This was the beginning of Amanda’s trips to Kenyatta National Hospital and sleepless nights for the family. She lost her hearing, coordination and balance.

Due to the high cost of living and parents' loss of employment due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the family was helpless. In April, 2022, St. Vincent De Paul Nursery School admitted the twins and started journeying with them. The school, through the help of a social worker, engaged the parents in counseling sessions. It was not easy for the parents to accept that their daughter had a disability and that it might take a while for her to recover.

The class teacher ensured a conducive environment for Amanda. She led discussions with children around hearing abilities and asked them to support Amanda in every way possible. This integration has helped Amanda to learn, grow, gain her coordination, movement and balance. It has also helped the entire team in school to appreciate that children with all different abilities have strengths and deserve equal opportunities.

Today Amanda is able to smile, socialize and play with others. She no longer gets agitated and frustrated when she cannot express herself. She has learnt to be independent and happy.

It is our joy to see Amanda regaining her strength through the supports provided at school each day. We know the importance and appreciate the opportunity to serve children like Amanda. Many children living with disabilities in the community are left at home as parents too often believe that disability is inability.