In January 2015, Edwin Ariz, is climbing Tanzania's Mt. Kilimanjaro -- the tallest peak in Africa at 19,341 feet-- to raise funds for St. Vincent's Community Development Organization. 100% of proceeds will go to support much needed counseling services for orphans and other vulnerable children in Kibera, Kenya supported by St. Vincent's who have experienced abuse or neglect. Edwin is St. Vincent's Project Administrator.
Poverty, unemployment, food insecurity and lack of infrastructure are constant challenges for families in Kibera. Many children are affected by HIV/AIDS and have lost one or both parents, and some children are living with HIV themselves. These children often experience a profound sense of loss, grief, fear and anxiety. As a result, they are more likely to experience higher levels of depression and lower self-esteem, which ultimately impedes their development.
Most programs targeting orphans and vulnerable children in Kibera provide for material needs, while few resources exist to support children's emotional needs. This program is different. Funds will be used to provide psychosocial support services from a qualified counselor for our children and their caregivers for a one year period. Counseling will address the children's emotional needs and equip them with skills to manage the trauma and grief they have experienced in their lives.
This project will provide a safe environment in which children who have experienced abuse will have the opportunity to properly grieve, better cope with emotions and discuss behavior problems (e.g. risky behaviors) -- ultimately leading to happier and healthier children. Counseling services will be offered to approximately 40 children that St. Vincent works with directly, as well as to vulnerable caregivers in need of emotional support to be able to better care for themselves and their children.
