Education & Support for Vulnerable Children, Kenya

Dear Supporters, 

It’s hard to believe that we’ve reached the end of the first quarter of the year and the first term of the school year. Although the first quarter of 2017 has been difficult for Nyota Ing’Arayo in some respects with the struggle to pay the major bills such as rent, teachers wages and food program, as well as the many other expenses incurred in running a school, each day has been faced with a smile and a positive attitude and Term 1 will finish on a positive note with exams completed and everyone looking forward to a short break.

Nyota Ing’Arayo has had to rely on a handful of direct donations from GVI Kenya Alumni and supporters which have been essential to supplement school fees and income from the tuk-tuk business. The school has also had some wonderful, enthusiastic visitors during the first term.  

Some of the activities and highlights of the year to date have been –

• Continuation of the feeding program – providing porridge and a nutritious meal to over 250 students plus teachers each day.
• Twenty-four children from Nyota attended a free medical camp run by the local Rotary Clubs of Mombasa. The camp provided basic health checks including eyes and teeth, medication and referrals. So far 5 children who were referred for further eye tests have attended the Mombasa Eye Hospital and are now the proud owners of new glasses. Others have received follow-up medical treatment.
• 36 children started the year with new school uniforms.
• Standard 7 and Standard 8 classrooms have new desks. The desks allow the children to sit more comfortably and meet the standards required for Standard 8 to be able to sit their KPCE exams at the end of the year.
• Introduction of some fun new games including Twister, Snakes and Ladders and Uno for the days when it’s just too hot for football.
• Drawing activities which have also revealed some amazing artistic talent.

Overall it’s been a great first term for everyone at Nyota Ing’Arayo and we’re looking forward to facing the challenges and the highlights of the second term - after a well-earned break of course!

With Gratitude, 
Brain (Nyota Admin Manager) and Dianne (Volunteer)