Tumaini Children's Ministry - July 2021 Update
Nyeri, Kenya
The Tumaini Children’s Ministry, a mission effort of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA), is comprised of Tumaini and Huruma Children’s Homes. More than 100 children are currently being served by the homes located in Nyeri County, Kenya. Outreach’s Africa Partnership Liaison, Frank Dimmock, visited Tumaini in June, and here are excerpts from his report:
During my visit, I met with Rev. Richard Gichuki, parish minister, and Anne Wandimi, the children’s home manager. Tumaini is in the process of renewing its registration with the Department of Children’s services. We visited the Nyeri County Director of Children’s Services, Mr. Mwaniki J. Kung’u, who complimented Tumaini for quality of care. The Kenya Government is developing new strategies for alternative care for children and Mr. Kung’u suggested that Tumaini could help network the 30 children’s homes in the county to share experiences.
COVID has impacted the ministry by school closures and a decrease in in-kind support locally. The two homes are trying to be self-supportive with laying hens, dairy cows, and a large garden with greenhouses. The Huruma home (in nearby Nyeri town) is challenged with a regular supply of clean water.
The government schools reopened earlier this year and students were happy to return. We visited with Mr. James Wangai, principal of the nearby Riamukurwe Secondary School where 31 of the children from the Tumaini and Huruma homes attend. There are also 43 children attending the local primary school. The children are grateful for the recent improvements to the homes, including repainting the dormitory and repairs to the water system. It was a joy to worship with them on Sunday.
The ministry has a newly-appointed Board of Management consisting of professionals who are committed to ensuring the best interests of the children and that Christian values are maintained. We are grateful for the partnership with all supporters in Kenya and the United States in caring for these children. Thank you.
Read more about Tumaini Children’s Ministry HERE.
THE NEED
The Outreach Foundation is raising funds for operations for the Tumaini Children’s Ministry which feeds, houses, clothes, educates, and cares for these children; $2,200 per scholarship for e-learning and an additional $20,000 for the vocational training center. You may make a gift HERE or by sending a check to our office.
Tumaini Board of Management