Pat Jones just arrived in Kenya with 6 suitcases of clothes and toys for the children of Merryland Kindergarten, located in Ndaragwa, Nyandarua district, approx 6 km from Nyahururu town.
Pat is 75 and quite clearly has the heart and bravery of a Superhero!
The Kindergarten started in the year 2005, on the initiative of Lydiah Wangechi Gichane (known as Wangechi, below, left) after losing her husband in an accident. Initially trained as an early childhood teacher, she intended to provide the best development for children between two and seven years. 90% of the parents are casual labourers, earning only 100 KSh per day, which just about covers food, house rent and very basic needs for their families. The area also has a large population of children who need special care like orphans, mentally and physically challenged children and highly neglected children.
Pat & my friend, Danielle, are working hard alongside Wangechi to obtain more space for playgrounds at the nursery & playing and learning materials for the children. They have hopes for improved medical facilities and sponsors to ensure teachers can be paid.
We would all be grateful for any form of help or donation you can make.
Please contact either AVIF or Lydia Wangechi Gichane directly; P.O. Box 595 – 20300, Nyahururu Kenya
Cell phone: +254-722-780529
This is little James, age 4. He is his family’s only child. The family is poor and his mother makes a living selling potatoes at a nearby market but is not in good health. She uses the unsold potatoes to feed James and is unable to adequately meet all of his needs. James has a problem with speech and cannot express himself properly.Yes, he’s scared & traumatised but we hope Merryland will allow him to play & learn & smile more. James doesn’t yet have a sponsor, if you’d like to help please get in touch.
Asante & salamu x
