Where
Kenya has a population of over 39.8 million (UN, 2009) and a life expectancy of 54 years. Many people still live in poverty on less than a dollar a day and rely on small plots of land to provide food for their families. School provision varies greatly in Kenya depending on where you live. The poorer areas do not have enough schools and sadly there is a lack of teachers for the schools they do have. Although primary education is free, to attend there are many hidden costs.

Located an hour from central Nairobi, but a million miles away from its tall buildings and rich hotels, the rock mining district of Theta is not marked on most maps. To get there we leave the road at Ruiru, follow a dirt track for at least 20 minutes, and eventually arrive in dusty, barren Theta. The housing is mainly non permanent corrugated iron shacks, giving little shelter from the rain. The area feels like a dumping ground. There is hardly any vegetation and many in the community do not have jobs.

Who
Grassroots is sponsoring children in partnership with Good Neighbours. George (a Kenyan pastor who we have known for a number of years) and his wife Grace (a teacher) moved into Theta and have built El-Shaddai (a Christian primary school) and a church community room. Before they arrived, there was no school in the area. Joining with them we hope to help the community – starting with getting the children healthy, fed, clothed and educated.

In partnership with George & Grace of Good Neighbours, Grassroots sponsors some of the children of the poorest families in the Theta area. This gives them practical help and so guides them away from the only alternative – living by their wits on the streets! We are looking for people in the UK to partner us in this task. Please be assured that 100% of the sponsorship money you give will be spent supporting your child! (more details of this policy here)

Your regular gift will enable us to help change a child's future and show them practically that God loves them.

As little as £5 per month can provide a Kenyan child with appropriate education (or age appropriate help), school uniform, shoes (or other clothes), school equipment, tuition fees, daily breakfast at school plus a support system including regular visits from a Grassroots' volunteer.... and a brighter future.

To start sponsoring either download this standing order form and send it by post or pay by credit card here. If you are a UK tax payer please do indicate that you can gift aid your donations.

Once you have started sponsoring a child we will send you a certificate including their name, a photograph and a few more details. We will also forward any letters that we receive from them. There will be opportunities for you to write to them, although this will always be via the Grassroots’ office. For more information please contact us and we’ll do our best to answer any questions you have.