Kenya: We continue to provide information to our partner organization, Mama Beth’s. They are purchasing large quantities of food to distribute to the families in the Kijabe community who have young children and who have so graciously taken in other children (many of the orphans from Mama Beth’s). Please see the photos below. Many of the families had either seasonal or temporary jobs for employment and are no longer employed due to COVID-19. So they have joined forces to purchase food in Nairobi ,bring to Kijabe, sort, and distribute. The supply chains have been so impacted that little food is getting to Kijabe. When the food is distributed, they are using this as an opportunity to provide all family members with information and demonstrations, such as hand washing and appropriate mask wearing and modeling physical distancing.  In addition, they are providing ideas to engage in family activities to keep children learning. In the US, we do not have to worry too much as our systems allow for us to move much of our children’s education online. It is not ideal, however it is an option.  In Kijabe, this is not an option.

Nicaragua: Our community group has continued to work with home visits and community workshops – AND – modeling how to uphold physical distancing, encouraging mask wearing, providing information from WHO on COVID-19, developing well-being family plans, providing educational activities to do with their children at home and providing community workshops and story hours. The Ministry of Health recognizes the work we do as aligned and valuable. Our community providers are limited in funds and supplies to support this work like so many health programs during this time.  While the group continues this critical work, it is also important for them to keep food on the table for their family. The cost is $50 a week per team member to work with over 35 families a week, provide 4 story hours and 4 community workshops. That is less than $1.25 per family to learn about age appropriate and healthy ways to address the pandemic and ensure children keep learning. This is why even $20 a month can make a big difference!

At a time when so many people are feeling the impact of the pandemic, we’re working to make sure the needs of those who are often invisible or unseen. We know times are uncertain for many right now.  However, even $10/month can make such a difference to many children and families who need our help.  With your help, we can advocate and continue our support for underserved children and their families.