We're in the business of transforming the lives of street children in Machakos, Kenya. Every year, at least 75 former street children participate in Jitegemee's rehabilitation and vocational training program. We also support another 120 young people with education and other social services. After graduation most of our students are able to support themselves and live a life they can be proud of. We ask you to join us in changing these children's lives forever!
For several years, Jitegemee teachers have walked the streets of Machakos town (approx. 35 miles outside Nairobi) to gain the confidence of children living and working on the streets. They invite the children to join our vocational program and turn their lives around. Many of our children have been addicted to drugs, have been involved in prostitution, or are orphans. All have either dropped out of or have been in and out of formal schooling.
Our vocational program enrolls the former street children in a six-month rehabilitation program. After this, they attend a trade-choosing workshop and select a trade they will pursue, such as carpentry, seamstressing, hairdressing, plumbing, or mechanical installation. The children are then matched with a mentor who they train with for 18 months. During this time the students come to Jitegemee for a daily meal. They also receive health screenings and other social services throughout the year.
Our vocational students support themselves! More than 80% of our graduates are either earning or employed, and provide for themselves and their families. By helping these children learn a trade, they not only support themselves but others too, and thus ending the vicious cycle of poverty.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
