Every Child Deserves a Chance
Constancy
We are persistent in our
efforts, recognizing that true impact requires long-term
dedication.
Every Child Deserves a Chance
Constancy
We are persistent in our
efforts, recognizing that true impact requires long-term
dedication.
The contributing factors to the alarming number of Orphans and Vulnerable Children are:
1. HIV/AIDS
Kenya has an alarmingly high mortality rate due to HIV( AIDS). It ranks 9th in the world in reported cases of HIV infection. The failed or overstretched health system does not meet the needs of these children let alone a population of about 30 million. Private health networks which offer better care can only be accessed by average and above average families. These kids have no access to health care and if they did, they would not receive reasonable health care in public hospitals because of lack of medicine.
"When you help the poor, sympathize with the afflicted and oppressed, and befriend the orphan, you bring yourselves into a closer relationship to God"-EGW
Impact on Children
The social and economic impacts of AIDS threaten the well being and security of millions of children worldwide. As parents and other family members become ill, children take on greater responsibility for income generation, food production, and care of family members. They face decreased access to adequate nutrition, basic health care, housing, and clothing. Fewer families can afford to send their children to school, with young girls at particular risk of being denied an education.
Impact on Families and Communities
In kenya where it is hardest hit by HIV/AIDS, care for orphans and children affected by HIV/AIDS lies primarily with their families and communities. But HIV/AIDS is placing huge burdens on the extended family system;the backbone of African societies; while also ravaging entire communities. This can leave many orphans with little support. The widespread loss of life from HIV/AIDS undermines entire communities.
2. Poverty & Unemployment
Poverty impacts negatively on children as they are deprived their basic needs to survival, protection, participation and development. The national absolute poverty is now estimated at 46%, unemployment rate of 55%, Literacy rate of 78.1%, 7% inflation rate, and poor economic management and policies.
Statistics: National Bureau of Statistics (2007)
A Success Story of little Edwin (2 yrs)
Edwin was brought to kid’s home by a staff working with LIVE WITH HOPE organization, his single mother is a commercial sex worker, she disappeared to unknown place and left her child under the care of a drunkard grandmother. He had been visiting the prisons next to their home begging for food, his feet was infected with jiggers and extremely malnurished; the grandmother had never been home to take care of him and his nephew Allan. Upon arriving at Kids Home International, Edwin received medical care; deworming and removal of jiggers was performed by a certified nurse. He is now a happy little boy, full of energy and a brighter future.
Copyright 2011 Kids Home International
