Our main focus for three years was the Joy Children’s Home in Kenya. Thanks to Child Shelter International, this home opened its doors in September of 2004, and is now home to 20 precious children and they will soon move into a permanent home, on land with space to grow food and keep livestock. They are cared for by an adoring and talented staff—the director, Sara Wanjiku Waithaka, a mother, a teacher, a social worker, two cooks, a security guard, and a “driver” to transport children and supplies. (Currently the only mode of transport is one bicycle.)

These children, who were once living in the devastating and appalling poverty of the slums of Nairobi, are now healthy, happy and living in a small home in the outskirts of Nairobi in Ruiru.

A visit in July of 2005 by directors Roberta Raab and Patti Beard, found the children to be thriving. Roberta and Patti brought suitcases full of toys, books, over-the-counter medicines, clothes and other gifts, most of which were sent by our donors. Patti and Roberta were regaled endlessly by performances of songs and plays during their visit. The children were treated to outings to the Giraffe Sanctuary and Mamba African Cultural Center, as well as a big farewell party with all the trimmings.