Street children in Nairobi face a myriad of challenges ranging from lack of access to education, healthcare, shelter, and basic necessities such as food and clothing to exposure to violence, drug abuse, and sexual exploitation. These children are mostly orphaned or have been abandoned by their families due to poverty, disease, or other reasons. Fortunately, Kwetu Home of Peace, a charitable children’s institution established in 1993 under the Archdiocese of Nairobi, is making a significant difference in the lives of these children. In this blog post, we’ll explore the challenges facing street children in Nairobi and how Kwetu Home of Peace is helping to address them.
Lack of Access to Education
One of the most significant challenges facing street children in Nairobi is a lack of access to education. Many of these children have never been to school, and even if they have, they often drop out due to financial constraints or family problems. Kwetu Home of Peace provides education to the boys in their care, ensuring they receive a quality education that sets them up for a successful future.
Lack of Access to Healthcare
Street children in Nairobi also lack access to healthcare, leaving them vulnerable to illness and disease. Kwetu Home of Peace provides medical care to the boys in their care, ensuring they receive treatment for illnesses and injuries.
Lack of Access to Shelter and Basic Necessities
Street children in Nairobi have no place to call home and are forced to sleep in unsafe and unsanitary conditions. They also lack access to basic necessities such as food and clothing. Kwetu Home of Peace provides shelter, food, and clothing to the boys in their care, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable place to call home.
Exposure to Violence, Drug Abuse, and Sexual Exploitation
Street children in Nairobi are exposed to violence, drug abuse, and sexual exploitation, putting them at risk of physical and emotional harm. Kwetu Home of Peace provides a safe and supportive environment for the boys in their care, protecting them from these dangers and ensuring they receive psychosocial support to counter their trauma.
Family Separation
Family separation is a significant issue for street children in Nairobi, as many of them are orphaned or have been abandoned by their families due to poverty, disease, or other reasons. Kwetu Home of Peace provides family-based care, reuniting children with their families and communities, and building awareness in the community about child protection and alternative care.
Conclusion:
Street children in Nairobi face numerous challenges that leave them vulnerable to physical and emotional harm. However, with the help of institutions like Kwetu Home of Peace, these children can receive the love, care, and support they need to thrive. By providing education, healthcare, shelter, and basic necessities, as well as protection from violence, drug abuse, and sexual exploitation, Kwetu Home of Peace is making a significant difference in the lives of these children.