Mji Wa Neema is a children’s home run by St. Francis Xavier Parish in Naivasha, Keya. Started in 2005, they have provided a home for about 40 children over the years. Kenya Help has sponsored education of all the residents through primary, secondary, and higher education. The younger children attend Milimani Primary School in Naivasha, the high school students attend various high schools around Naivasha, and the older students attend several institutions of higher learning.
In the evening the children all gather after dinner to do their homework. The room is quiet, except for students working together and the older ones helping the younger ones. They give each other a great deal of support. On weekends they sometimes hold debates or on occasion the older ones will prepare a lesson to present to the group or they dance, give plays and recite poetry.
They work together to prepare food, under the supervision of the matron, Julia. They keep their rooms, clothes and the compound clean. When school is on vacation most go to visit extended family – aunts/uncles, grandparents, etc. These family members are not able to care for them year round, but every effort is made to retain the family connection. Some of the children are foundlings about whom nothing is known. Not knowing one’s tribe is a big loss, as tribal culture is a big part of the life in Kenya.
In addition to school fees for Mji Wa Neema residents, money donated through Kenya Help has refurbished the home. A 12-foot wall has been built around it to ensure their safety, dorms have been replaced by 2-person rooms, and new furniture for bedrooms and dining room provided. The kitchen has been rebuilt and the dining/social hall repainted. The children have received new clothes, school uniforms and shoes.