New hope for learners affected by Mathare floods as schools reopen

The learners from seven public schools on Saturday received shoes, and two pairs of uniforms each from Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) gave them uniform. 

SHOFCO Chief Strategy Officer Mark Laichena said the organization is committed to working with communities at the grassroots to ensure that they receive essential services for their survival.

“Our work is about engaging with the communities holistically. Many of the children we are giving uniforms today are from families that were affected by floods mid this year. We also supported the families with food and medicine during that period,” he stated. 

He further said the organization is aiming to support 50,000 needy children in the coming years in partnership with the government. 

Former Education Chief Administrative Secretary Dr. Sarah Ruto, who was the chief guest during the event said the organization has helped children from underprivileged communities to access education. 

“Giving children uniform is the first step in the provision of education because it helps them have dignity. We should not have our children go to school in torn uniform as I saw some of the students here today,” Dr. Ruto said. 

On her part, Nairobi Region Director of Education Dr. Margaret Lesuda said giving students good uniform raises their confidence and allow them to study well. 

“Giving our children new uniform raises their hope in education. We know that most of these children were affected by floods and many other challenges in slums,” she said. 

Mary Magoha, whose child benefitted from the uniform donation, said she lost all her belongings to floods. 

“All my household items including school uniforms and books were swept away by floods,” she said, adding “My two children have gotten uniform today and they will go to school happy.” 

During the floods, the organization reached over 20,000 victims with essential services.