During school holidays, children in Kibagare face a hidden danger. Without the structure of school and the guaranteed meal it provides, many children end up on the streets of Westlands. This exposes them to risks including child trafficking, which has been reported in Nairobi and its surroundings.
LaFamilia's Holiday Porridge and Mandazi program was created to address this critical gap. Every school holiday, we organize feeding sessions where children receive hot porridge and mandazi, creating a safe gathering point that keeps them off the streets.
But the program is about more than just food. While the children eat, we engage them in Bible study, games, life skills discussions, and creative activities. It's a holistic approach that nourishes their bodies, minds, and spirits.
"We noticed that some kids would cry when sent home from school because being in school meant they would have at least one meal," recalls Stephen Nyangoso. "That broke our hearts and motivated us to do something."
The program has grown significantly since its inception. What started as a small gathering now serves hundreds of children during each holiday period. Many of these children are total orphans living with grandmothers who depend entirely on well-wishers.
The porridge and mandazi program continues to be one of our most visible and impactful initiatives, directly protecting children while building community bonds.
La Familia Initiative
LaFamilia Hope Initiative Nairobi CBO