MARAFIKI TRUST
How to donate
If you would like to donate to Marafiki Trust, please follow the Just Giving link below! We really appreciate the support!
‘To make a difference in someone’s life, you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful, or perfect. You just have to care.’
Mandy Hale
Some of the children we support
We work with children from two projects …
Gibril
Gibril (aged 10) is the second born in a family of 3 children. He used to live with his mother who suffers from alcohol and drug addiction and funds her habits by working as a prostitute. When life became too unbearable, Gibril decided to join street life hoping to find some peace. But he was then abused whilst in the streets. Gibril was rescued by the RHYCO team and taken to the reception centre where he was given love, care and psychosocial support. During his reintegration the team identified his Aunt who despite her financial constraints offered to provide a home for Gibril. Gibril is a hardworking, obedient and a very bright child. Despite being in and out of school from an early age, he now performs very well in school and leads the class academically. Gibril is a keen footballer and he wishes to be an engineer when he grows up.
Hezron
Hezron (aged 9) is the last born in a family of 3 children living with his single mother. He developed cerebral palsy after contracting meningitis at the age of 6 months. He lives in a small 2 roomed house made of iron sheets. His mother does weaving and basket making to earn a small living. Since Hezron started at Joyful Hearts, his mother has been able to spend more time working.
Lavenda
Lavenda (aged 9) lives with her parents, 2 brothers and 1 sister. Her Dad is a casual labourer when he can find work, but is also an alcoholic, which has destabilized the family. They live in a single room made of iron sheets with no access to water or electricity. They buy borehole water. Lavenda is now at school and dreams of becoming a Chef. She loves playing with her friends at the RHYCO centre during the holidays and makes the most of the after school homework provision and support during term time.
Dylan
Dylan (aged 4) lives with his Mum, 3 brothers and 1 sister very close to the RHYCO centre. He attends Excellence Pre-School.
He loves playing with his friends and colouring.
Jayden
Jayden (aged 10) had a normal home delivery but failed to thrive as a baby and was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. When admitted to Joyful Hearts he was severely malnourished. After undergoing intense physiotherapy and helping the mother with a nutritional programme, Jayden has gained weight and mobility and enjoys his daily visits to Bella Ciao.
Lilian (JHC Manager and Founder) commented 'Just because they cannot express themselves verbally, does not mean the children aren’t thinking, feeling, or understanding. We help them to communicate in whatever way they can manage.'
Paloma
Paloma (aged 9) lives with her Mum and 2 brothers in a single room made of iron sheets with no electricity, where they have to pay for water. Paloma is a cheerful girl who has some disabilities. She loves drawing and playing football, and helps at home by cleaning the dishes.
Paloma now boards at Gilgil Special School which is north-west of Nairobi and is supported by RHYCO and the Kivuli Trust.
