WORD FROM THE NATIONAL DIRECTOR
A Happy New Year this 2023!
We recently celebrated the Christmas season, one of the most treasured holidays at SOS Children's Villages. Every holiday brings us joy, hope and love as it should, because of your endless support towards our mission.
As Hermann Gmeiner aptly puts it in his quote, we are always encouraged to know that we are not caring for and protecting our children and young people alone. Instead, we have you to count on. As the new year commences, we are so grateful for your support. Thank you to our incredible donors, partners, grantees, and staff working towards the same goal; to provide a loving home for every child. SOS Children’s Villages has been positively impacting the lives of children and young people for over 70 years and has grown from a local organization to a global federation with more than 4 million supporters across the globe. We work in different thematic areas of concern to include: Education, Youth Economic Empowerment, Healthcare, Alternative Care and Advocacy.
All these spheres of our work aim to protect and care for children and young people. As I reflect on our work this past year, I am encouraged by what you have done to make our vision possible. We fast-tracked quite a number of activities towards realizing our strategic goals as we continued to strengthen our partnerships with various stakeholders. Our partners continued supporting our mission both in-kind and through direct funding. Our Christmas campaign this year took flight due to the strong bonds that we have built with the people who believe in us. Further, we have continued engaging with the government to ensure the best care for our children and young people. We reiterated our voice in the media towards the enactment of the Children’s Bill of 2021, thus strengthening our stand as thought leaders in the care and protection of children and young people. Our medical facilities in Nairobi and Eldoret continue to provide quality healthcare for both the people in the community and those in our care.
Our work in strengthening families in the community is on a positive and upward trajectory. We have also prioritized capacity building children and young people in our care on ICT skills, career guidance, counselling and mental health, to relieve the stresses caused by the COVID 19 pandemic. In this newsletter, please find information on our successes as we strive to ensure that every child grows up in a loving home and becomes successful in their adult lives. Thank you!
GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE
PATRON
Her Excellency The Former First Lady of The Republic of Kenya, Mrs. Margaret Kenyatta
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
OUR CARE PROMISE
Is a simplified policy document that evolved from existing policies and is in response to strategy 2030 and the International Frameworks on Alternative Care. It was approved by the international senate and is a mandatory policy for all member associations (MA) and all workers. It guides the delivery of quality care in all our programmes. https://sosvirtual.aldeasinfantilessos.org/cursos-items/sos-care-promise/
A HEART-WARMING CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION AT GARDEN CITY MALL FOR CHILDREN OF SOS CHILDREN'S VILLAGES KENYA
It was a festive day at Garden City Mall in December 2022, as the mall management invited 47 children from SOS Children’s Villages Kenya for a fun Christmas day.
The children, aged 3-12 years, accompanied by three caregivers, were welcomed by the Marketing Manager, Ms Ruth Wako. They were delighted to be in the vast mall and fascinated by the festive decorations.
The day was filled with exciting activities and treated for the children. The first activity was a puppet show that included singing Christmas carols, which the children thoroughly enjoyed. Galitos, the famous flame-grilled chicken restaurant at the mall, provided a sumptuous lunch for every child.
The children were also shown a thrilling movie, "Lyle Lyle Crocodile," on an enormous 3D screen in the afternoon. They enjoyed popcorn and a soft drink while watching the film.
The day was concluded by a delightful funfair held at the playground, which excited the children.
They joyfully bounced on the inflatable castles, rode on the train, and spun around on the merry-go-round. The Garden City Mall Management generously gifted each child with a food hamper and a present to add to the happiness. The children left the mall with big grins and hearts full of joy from the beautiful day they had just experienced.
"We are thrilled to have hosted these amazing children at Garden City Mall. We believe every child deserves to experience the magic of Christmas, and we were honoured to have provided a fun-filled day for them," said Ms Ruth Wako, Marketing Manager at Garden City Mall.
SOS Children's Villages Kenya is a charitable organization that provides a home and family to orphaned and abandoned children. The Christmas fun day at Garden City Mall was a memorable and heart- warming experience for the children, who uniquely enjoyed the holiday season.
At Garden City Mall, we believe in giving back to our community, and we are committed to positively impacting the lives of the people we serve. We look forward to hosting more events that bring joy and happiness to our community.
SOS CHILDREN'S VILLAGES CEO VISITS KENYA
In November 2022, SOS Children's Villages CEO, Ms. Ingrid Johansen, visited Kenya to see the impact of their work in providing care for orphaned and abandoned children. She met with SOS Children's Villages board members and local staff during her visit. She visited the SOS Children's Village National Office in Nairobi to interact with staff.
Ms. Johansen also took the opportunity to meet with the media to discuss the need for funding for the Horn of Africa emergency response program, which remains underfunded. She emphasized the importance of working on prevention and keeping families together to end the cycle of need.
Ms. Johansen was deeply moved by the resilience and hope of the children and young people she met, she was also impressed by the dedication of the local staff who work tirelessly to provide the best possible care for the children in their care. She also met with global partners and donors to discuss the critical work of SOS Children's Villages and ways to support the organization's efforts in Kenya further.
Overall, Ms. Johansen's visit was a success and further solidified SOS Children's Villages' commitment to providing loving homes and care for children in need in Kenya. It's a reminder of the organization's and its CEO's dedication to ensuring the welfare of the children and the communities they serve.
SOS CHILDREN'S VILLAGES KENYA HOSTS A SUCCESSFUL VISIT FROM SOS CHILDREN'S VILLAGES NETHERLANDS BOARD
SOS Children's Villages Kenya recently hosted the SOS Children's Villages Netherlands Board from 29th January to 3rd February 2023 to provide an overview of the organization's work in Kenya and strengthen the partnership between the two organizations.
The visit started with a meeting between the Board members and the Senior Management Team at the SOS Children's Villages Kenya National Office. A visit to Meru County followed this. Ms. Arian Buurman and her team could see the impact of various projects, including Village Savings and Loans Associations, foster families, and physically integrated families. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to witness the dedication of local staff and the positive impact of the organization's programs on the lives of children and families in the community.
The next day, there was a productive meeting at the village with the leadership of the National Office and the Meru and Kisumu leadership. The Board members planted trees, leaving a positive impact on the environment. Tanja IJzer, Country Portfolio Manager at SOS Kinderdorp Netherlands, continued the visit in Kisumu County, where she met with the Sub–County Commissioner of Nyando and visited the Nyando area to see the effects of flooding and the work of SOS Children’s Villages Kenya in the region. She also visited a TVET and met with beneficiaries of the Family Strengthening program. The visit was a success, providing a valuable opportunity for both offices to learn from each other and improve their efforts to enhance the lives of vulnerable children and families in Kenya
ADVOCACY
We are pleased to update you on our advocacy efforts to support children and youth leaving care. Over the past quarter, we have been actively collaborating with both state and non-state actors to make a positive impact.
One of our most significant achievements was disseminating the Children's Act 2022 and Child Protection in Emergencies Operational Guidelines for Child Protection Practitioners in Kenya. This has equipped more people with the knowledge they need to protect children in need better.
In addition, we have conducted capacity-building activities, fostered partnerships and networking, and utilized media platforms to raise awareness about issues affecting children and youth leaving care. We have also ensured youth participation in our advocacy activities to confirm their inclusion in policy development and program implementation.
The Children's Act 2022 now in effect, we have begun reviewing our policies and operational documents to align them with the new provisions of the Act. We are collaborating with other national and local program heads to review existing programs and document the implications of ongoing policy and program changes in consultation with the government.
We have successfully implemented all of our advocacy activities in collaboration with colleagues from various departments, facilitating the incorporation and mainstreaming of advocacy efforts throughout our organization. Furthermore, we have aligned our advocacy activities across all eight Directorate of Children's Services departments and the National Council for Children's Services to implement joint activities effectively.
Thank you for supporting us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and youth, leaving care
STRENGTHENING LOCAL CHILD PROTECTION STRUCTURES IN 5 COUNTIES IN KENYA
SOS Children's Villages Kenya has been actively working towards strengthening local child protection structures in five counties across Kenya in the last quarter of 2022. We are thrilled to share with you the great success of this initiative!
The training sessions were held in Kisumu, Eldoret, Nairobi, Meru, and Mombasa Counties from November 14th to December 16th, 2022. The Family Strengthening manager, Henry Bineah, kick-started the training by informing the participants that they would be equipped to protect children in their communities. We were excited to see a diverse group of participants from different Government departments, religious fraternities, and Civil Society Organizations who attended the training.
SOS Children's Villages Kenya partnered with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) - Child Protection Unit, Clear Kenya, and the Directorate of Children Services (DCS) to provide comprehensive training to the participants. Over five days in each county, trainees learned about the Legal Aid Act 2016, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), self- representation, and being paralegals for efficient case management. They were also enlightened on key GOK policies and trends in child abuse, as well as the Children's Act 2022.
The training was a huge success, as it achieved the goal of promoting the existence of vibrant, well-informed, and organized local child protection structures that advocate for the protection and well-being of children. The participants identified strategic areas for partnership consideration with DCI – CPU & CLEAR Kenya, promoting efficient case management and establishing child protection spaces and structures in Kenya.
At the end of the training, the trainees were awarded certificates to celebrate their successful completion of the program. We at SOS Children's Villages Kenya are proud of the hard work and dedication of everyone who made this training a reality. We look forward to continuing to work together to protect and support children in the communities we serve.
ALTERNATIVE CARE
SOS Children's Villages Kenya is dedicated to providing quality care and protection for vulnerable children and youth. In the last quarter of 2022, the organization focused on raising awareness and promoting acceptance of the Care Reform strategy among various stakeholders, including staff, government officials, civil society, children, and young people. The aim was to change attitudes and perceptions towards emerging policies and practices to enhance the quality of care and support for vulnerable children.
The organization also provided direct services to children under SOS family care during this time, including preparations for relocating one family to the community in Mombasa. This move was initiated by children and youth who expressed interest in living in the community while receiving education, health, family empowerment, and legal assistance. The children will be sponsored in the community instead of departing from sponsorship.
SOS Children's Villages Kenya plans to reintegrate 70 children and youth with their families of origin and communities and admit 100 children with appropriate and suitable care options. They assessed 200 children and 172 youth for reintegration, exceeding their target, and are currently implementing case plans for them.
The organization developed a concept note on reintegration for Mombasa and Nairobi, which was submitted for funding. They also supported the government in finalizing National Child Welfare guidelines to facilitate the registration of SOS families according to recognized provisions in the country. The guidelines will be validated in 2023 for adoption.
SOS Children's Villages Kenya is committed to equipping care professionals to handle changes in the care system. To achieve this, the organization plans to train 400 staff on policies related to Care Reforms, National Gatekeeping guidelines, available Alternative Care (AC) options, Standard Operating Procedures, case management, and key components of the national Care Reforms Strategy. In the last quarter of 2022, they successfully exceeded their target by training 400 care professionals, including 100 staff and 300 stakeholders, on Care Reform, gatekeeping, and SOPs across their 5 locations. Their efforts demonstrate a commitment to improving the quality of care and support for vulnerable children.
Furthermore, the organization collaborated with the Department of Children Services (DCS) and the Prison's department to provide Alternative Care to 50 children of imprisoned mothers in Meru, Nairobi, and Eldoret Counties.
SOS Children's Villages Kenya remains committed to providing quality care and protection for vulnerable children. Their efforts in the last quarter of 2022 demonstrate this commitment. They continue to work hard to enhance the quality of care and support for those in need. We anticipate seeing the positive impact of their efforts in the coming months.
EDUCATION
The Education Department of SOS Children's Villages Kenya has been dedicated to providing high-quality education to children in Family Strengthening and Family Care programs. Their recent efforts from September to December focused on Early Childhood Care and Development for children under three years old. The Toto Care Project and teacher capacity building on Curriculum-Based Assessment (CBC) and mental health were also priorities.
To improve Early Childhood Development And Education, the Education Department provided hand washing and water storage tanks to six daycare centres in Mombasa and Kisumu. The daycare managers were also trained on various topics, including nutrition, child protection, early childhood development milestones, and record-keeping. Additionally, 70 parents received training on the same issues.
The Education Department also partnered with the Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) and community health care centres in Mombasa and Kisumu to improve literacy and numeracy skills and provide health services to children. They provided parenting and positive discipline training to 55 family-strengthening caregivers in Meru to support their children's education success.
The department provided mentorship and career guidance to 46 youths in Meru, with ongoing mentorship and life skills training focused on managing emotions for good relationships. Plans are underway to host a junior secondary school, with renovations and completion of the laboratory being done during the school holiday.
Additionally, the Education Department supported finalising the Expression of Interest (EOI) process for a Meru kindergarten and is currently recruiting new teachers. During the Annual Planning and Budgeting Workshop, they shared the Education Sector Analysis Framework (ESAF) with location teams. They supported them in identifying priority areas for their location’s annual plans and budgets.
The department nominated a global expert group to assess and support evidence-based Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) programming in SOS Children's Villages. They also endorsed teachers from the ECD and lower primary sections with a training session on mental health and self-care to support their well-being and that of their students.
Overall, the Education Department's efforts demonstrate their unwavering commitment to providing quality education to children in family strengthening and family care programs.
FAMILY STRENGTHENING PROGRAMME
SOS Children's Villages Kenya recently conducted training to strengthen local child protection structures in five counties across Kenya from November 14th to December 16th, 2022. The training was successful and achieved the goal of promoting the existence of well-informed and organized local child protection structures that champion the protection and well-being of children. The training was conducted in Kisumu, Eldoret, Nairobi, Meru, and Mombasa Counties, with a mix of participants from different GOK departments, religious fraternities, and civil society organizations.
The Family Strengthening Manager, Henry Bineah, started the training by informing the participants that they would be equipped to protect children in their communities. The SOS Children’s Villages Kenya team partnered with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) - Child Protection Unit, Clear Kenya, and the Directorate of Children Services (DCS) to offer comprehensive participant training. Over five days in each county, trainees learned about key GOK policies and trends in child abuse, the Legal Aid Act 2016, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), self- representation, and being paralegals for efficient case management. They were also enlightened on the Children Act 2022.
At the end of the training, the trainees were awarded certificates to celebrate their successful program completion. The participants identified strategic areas for partnership consideration with DCI – CPU & CLEAR Kenya, promoting efficient case management and establishing child protection spaces and structures in Kenya. SOS Children’s Villages Kenya is proud of the hard work and dedication of everyone who made this training a reality and looks forward to continuing to work together to protect and support children in the communities they serve.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Kenya has taken a proactive approach to empowering and develop its youth through various initiatives. From October to December 2022, the country witnessed a surge of activities aimed at enhancing the lives of its young people. These included programs for Supported Independent Living, digital skills training, and specialized training for caregivers and staff.
Kenya's Supported Independent Living (SIL) program enrolled 407 young people nationwide in various colleges and universities. Additionally, 410 young people accessed digital opportunities and training in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS). The National Youth Council was also involved, with members receiving training on essential topics like Sexual and Reproductive Health, drug and substance abuse, and MHPSS to support their peers better.
Caregivers and staff were not left behind, as they received hands-on training on the care-leaving process. SOS parents and Youth Development professionals were trained on the Practice Guidance Manual, using new Pathway plans as exit strategies.
The launch of the YouthCan! Project was one of the highlights of the quarter. The project began with a needs assessment exercise conducted in Meru, and the launch event held on the outskirts of Eldoret, which the Deputy Director of the State Department of Youth Affairs and other guests graced.
To anticipate the effects of Care Reforms in the country, the government and private sector organizations, including SOS Children's Villages Kenya, began discussions on developing National Mentorship Guidelines for Supported Independent Living (SIL), with 12 officers participating in the partnership.
Kenya's continued focus on life skills development, partnerships, and youth participation has significantly progressed in supporting and empowering its young citizens. The future looks bright, and we can't wait to see the positive impact made in the coming years!
PARKINN BY RADISSON BRINGS CHRISTMAS CHEER TO SOS CHILDREN'S VILLAGES IN KENYA
The holiday spirit was in full swing as ParkInn by Radisson hosted their annual Christmas Tree lighting event for the children of SOS Children's Villages in Kenya. On the 6th of December 2022, the Westlands, Nairobi location was alive with excitement as the children eagerly awaited their turn to join in the festivities.
As the Christmas Tree was lit, the children's faces lit up with joy as they belted out traditional Christmas Carols. The festive atmosphere was contagious, and partners & friends, were filled with warmth and happiness.
The children were awarded Christmas takeaways and a delicious meal, which increased the smiles on their faces. It was a memorable event that will always hold a special place in their hearts.
ParkInn by Radisson is honoured to have been a part of this event and is committed to continuing its support for the children of SOS Children’s Villages in Kenya. "We are proud to have brought a little bit of Christmas cheer to these wonderful children, and we look forward to creating more magical memories in the future," they added.
Our partner expressed their gratitude to have worked with such an amazing organization as SOS Kenya and to have given back to the community. The annual Christmas Tree lighting event was a true celebration of the holiday spirit, and we as the SOS Kenya team are thrilled to have been a part of it.
SOS CHILDREN'S VILLAGES KENYA HOSTS VISIT BY SOS DENMARK'S BOARD CHAIR AND MD, STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN'S FUTURE
SOS Children's Villages Kenya was honoured to host the Board Chair of SOS Denmark, Mr. Lars Munch, and MD, Mr. Mads Klæstrup Kristensen during their recent program visit to Kenya. The visit began with a meeting with the SOS Children's Villages Kenya Senior Management Team at the Nairobi Village. Discussions were held on the organization's ongoing projects and plans.
On their second day SOS Children's Villages Kenya National Director Walter S. Odhiambo, Mr. Lars Munch, and Mr. Mads Klæstrup Kristensen visited the Kiambiu informal settlement in Nairobi. They met with beneficiaries of programmes supported by SOS Children's Villages in Kenya. The visit was an opportunity to understand the local context and explore opportunities for future collaborations.
The visit concluded with a trip to the SOS Children's Villages in Mombasa, where the team met with staff and children at the location. The children were thrilled to meet the visitors and share their experiences, while the team was impressed by the dedication and commitment demonstrated by the staff.
Overall, the visit was an enriching experience that reinforced the importance of the work being done by SOS Children's Villages Kenya. Our gratitude as an organization goes to Mr. Lars Munch and Mr. Mads Klæstrup Kristensen, for their interest and support, as we look forward to further collaborations that will help us create a better future for children in Kenya.
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