Keep Us Warm-Over 500 Children.

Since 2014, UP Zambia has been bringing warm clothing and warm support to children in custody across the country. These efforts have been made possible each year by the generous support of local churches, business, and caring individuals around the world.

This year, UP Zambia was able to spread warmth and cheer in June and July - Zambia's coldest months. Our team along with volunteers visited Lusaka Remand Facility, Livingstone Central Prison, Nakambala Approved School, Mwembeshi Remand Facility, Katombora Reformatory School, Kansenshi Correctional Facility, and Kamfinsa Correctional Facility. Through this outreach programme, over 400 children received much-needed support and care during the cold season.

Through local donations and worldwide donations through this GlobalGiving project, children were given care packs that included a warm hoodie, socks, soap, vaseline, toothbrush, toothpaste, laundry soap, and instant noodles. Our visits also became celebrations with warm meals and cake for all.  

At Lusaka Remand Facility, our visit was unique as it was in conjunction with commemorations of the Day of the African Child. The facility was visited by the Judges of the Children's Court and other officials. The children had fun performing for their visitors, creating an atmostpher of joy. The officials also took time to hear directly from the children about the challenges they are facing in the facilitiy and in their court cases.

The celebrations at Nakambala Approved School, Livingstone Central and Katombora Reformatory School centered on providing the children with one-on-one interaction and played various games. The Team spent time interacting with the children, encouraging them, and engaging them in moments of reflection.

At Kamfinsa, Insakwe and Kansenshi Correctional Facility, the children themselves were in the spotlight, performing dances and singing. The event ended with reflections, motivational talks, and a prayer led by one of the children, making for a special and memorable ending.

At Mwembeshi Remand Facility, the focus was on children in immigration detention who come from nations around the African continent as well as Asia. The day was filled with music from their home countries, dancing, and familar food, bringing comfort and a sense of belonging to children who were away from home. 

Across every facility, the children responded with overwhelming gratitude and joy, expressing how much the visits meant to them. Many were grateful for being remembered during the cold season, especially those with limited family contact. The facilities administrators and officers appreciated the initiative for the positive impact on the children’s morale, emotional well-being.

UP Zambia would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to all the corporate partners, donors, volunteers, and correctional staff members who have supported this initiative financially, materially, and/or in person. Your support has enabled us to reach hundreds of children with dignity, care, and hope during the Cold season, highlighting the impact that collective compassion and community solidarity can have.

As the 2026 comes to an end, UP Zambia is preparing to return to these facilities for our annual Christmas celebrations. We hope you will partner with us to bring some Christmas comfort and care to children who will spend the holidays behind  bars.