Tenderfeet Education Center

New Blog Location

2010-09-23T19:20:00.000-07:00

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Now that Tenderfeet has a new website design, we're enjoying the opportunity to integrate the blog with the website itself. By the way, even though it has a new design, the Tenderfeet website is still at the same web address: www.TenderfeetKids.org

As a result, all the new articles will be posted on the new blog location. No further articles will be posted here on the blogspot website. Please check the new blog and keep up with all the Tenderfeet happenings!

The blog address is: www.TenderfeetKids.org/blog

Scenes from the New School

2010-08-22T16:25:00.000-07:00

We recently received a new batch of pictures of the kids at the new Tenderfeet school. Since it opened in June, the teachers and children have been blessed by the spacious classrooms and outside area.

Please check out the gallery below.

Thanks to Edwin for taking the photos.

Kids give the "thumbs up" in front of the new school

Teacher Lydiah leads the class

Kids wait for their assignments

Lunchtime at Tenderfeet

Never before have the kids had such outside space for activities

Physical education is an important part of the curriculum

Mama Margaret shares her passion for kids with visitors

A New Website for Tenderfeet

2010-08-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

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Tenderfeet has launched a brand new website. It brings together our blog, has some great photos of the kids, information on the school, and lots of other interesting info.

Bright and colorful, we think it will help people understand our mission and see what good things can be done when we all work together for the kids. Get as many people as you can to visit and learn about life in Kibera – and sign up for our newsletter too. Visit the new Tenderfeet website here.

Note: it's the same web address as always: www.TenderfeetKids.org

I want to give a huge and special thanks to the team that put together the website -- Craig Garratt, Dan Binks, and Scott Sansoni. These three wonderful and creative Australian Tenderfeet friends really came through for Tenderfeet.

They worked countless hours, generously shared their own resources, and most of all, demonstrated a genuine loving heart for the needy children of Tenderfeet.

Such a high-quality website would cost an arm and a leg if it was put together by a typical web design firm, but we are so fortunate that the Tenderfeet web team donated their amazing talents free of charge. This means that we can focus all donations on helping those sweet kids that need help the most.

On behalf of Mama Margaret, the Tenderfeet Foundation board, and most of all, the Tenderfeet kids, I want to say a huge thanks to the web team!

Organizational Announcement and the Tenderfeet Foundation

2010-07-06T07:54:00.001-07:00

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Tenderfeet has enjoyed a great relationship with Lahash International which started in 2005. Through the advocacy and hard work of Lahash, Tenderfeet has gone from being on the brink of closing, to enjoying a wonderful facility to serve the children of the slums.

It's been a challenging journey, but God has been faithful and shown His wisdom throughout. All the while, the Lahash leadership and finance team has shown the love of God through their efforts and steadfastness.

Since 2006, most of the coordination and fundraising has taken place from Houston, Texas while the financial database and wire transfers have been handled from Portland, Oregon.

Starting in October 2009, discussions began on spinning off the Tenderfeet portion of Lahash as a separate organization to be headquartered in Houston. In other words, all activities related to Tenderfeet would take place exclusively in Houston and handled by the new organization, rather than being spread out over two cities through Lahash.

The goal is to increase the organizational efficiency so that both donors and the Tenderfeet project itself can be served in the best way possible.

This organizational change is mutually agreed upon and there are nothing but positive feelings shared by all. Mama Margaret fully supports this change.

Spinning off the new organization has been a time-consuming process, because it includes applying for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, setting up online donation, as well as coordinating the many steps of a transition plan. Now that process is complete.

This new organization is called the "Tenderfeet Foundation" and has achieved 501(c)(3) status.

The Tenderfeet Foundation will be responsible for the fundraising and partnership with Tenderfeet. It provides a mechanism through which donors can be enabled to assist in Tenderfeet's mission to serve the needy in the slums of Kenya. In terms of the sponsorship programs, the children being assisted, and the operations of the school -- nothing is changing whatsoever.

For any current Lahash donor that wants to continue helping the school, contributions can be made through the Tenderfeet Foundation at this link: Tenderfeet donation. The Tenderfeet Foundation will be using the same online system (Groundspring/Network for Good) that has been used by Lahash.

To cancel your Tenderfeet sponsorship through Lahash, please log into the account page and cancel your recurring Lahash donations. Of course, if you are sponsoring Tenderfeet as well as other Lahash projects, please only cancel those contributions going to Tenderfeet. Starting in September, any donations made through Lahash will be assumed to be for Lahash programs only and will not be forwarded to Tenderfeet.

If you would like to discuss these changes on the phone, please call me at the number 713-584-3975, or you can email me at dmitchell@lahash.net. My new email address is dax@tenderfeetkids.org and you can reach me that way as well.

I'm glad to answer any questions or discuss any concerns.
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Linet's Funeral

2010-05-31T14:37:00.001-07:00

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Linet Atieno, the mother of Tenderfeet students Shally and Emmaculate, was laid to rest after her tragic death.

Below are two photos of Linet's casket outside of her small one-room residence in the Kibera slums. According to Luo custom, the body was made available for viewing for neighbors and loved ones, who could come by and pay respects to the deceased and survivors. Linet's body was covered by a veil. Well-wishers could contribute to the funeral costs.

A significant portion of the burial expenses were paid for by Tenderfeet donors, which provides a huge relief to the family. It allows Linet's children to be spared unnecessary hardship, and we are deeply grateful to those who contributed.

The body was transported to the Nyanza Province near Lake Victoria that night. Once all the family had arrived the next day, the funeral and burial ceremonies took place in Linet's tribal homeland.

Below is the Aunt of Linet who will become the guardian of the two girls. She is also the guardian of Tenderfeet graduate Wickliff Wesonga. Emmaculate is on the left and Shally is on the right.

Here is a photo of Mama Margaret and Teacher Karen with the two girls. Teacher Elizabeth (not shown) traveled with the family to the Nyanza Province for the funeral. She had to convince the girls' relatives that the girls should return to Nairobi. Some of their father's family wanted to relocate the girls to live in the countryside where the poverty level was very high and opportunity for education was not present. Fortunately, Elizabeth was able to reason with the family in order to find the situation best for the girls.

AIDS Tragedy Comes to Tenderfeet Again

2010-05-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

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The photo to the right shows Linet Atieno, a 24 year old widow and mother of two young girls. She is sitting next to Mama Margaret in her small one-room house in the Kibera slum.

The two girls, Shally (4) and Emmaculate (6), attend Tenderfeet. The picture of Linet was taken recently by our friend Craig Garratt who visited her home while meeting some of the families of Tenderfeet.

Linet passed away this week from pneumonia, her tragic death directly related to her HIV positive condition. It's a familiar and heart-breaking story, one that tragically happens over and over again.

In fact, Linet was an orphan herself. Her parents both were lost to AIDS, leaving her and her siblings to live with relatives. Her brother Wickliff, 10 years younger than Linet, was a student at Tenderfeet and has been mentioned in previous articles.

While still a teenager, Linet got married. A few years after Shally was born, Linet's husband became ill and passed away from AIDS. He never told her about his condition, so when Linet found out she was HIV positive, it was a total surprise. Linet struggled to make a living doing whatever odd jobs she could find.

She depended on ARV drugs to keep her healthy enough to continue working, but a recent cold and rainy spell hit Nairobi. Apparently, when she got sick with pneumonia, it came on fast and she didn't take action in time.

If the Tenderfeet team would have known, they might could have saved Linet. It breaks my heart to say that she suffered and passed away in silence.

Linet belongs to the Luo tribe, who have very strict customs about burial. Luos believe that those who have died must be transported to their homeland near Lake Victoria for burial.

This means in practical terms that the family must fundraise to afford the hundreds of dollars for the transportation and burial of the body. It will be a severe strain on an already terribly stressed family. If you would like to help, please click here and enter "Linet" in the Donation Destination.

Any assistance would be a huge blessing to the girls.

Below is a photo of the two girls left behind, Shally is on the left and Emmaculate ("Emma") on the right. It was taken about one year ago during the "Day of the African Child" event.

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May School Updates

2010-05-04T10:07:00.001-07:00

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The second term of school started today. We are just about ready to move in to the new school building. Lahash representative Edwin Angote took a series of photographs of the new building.

All that remains is to plaster and paint the walls, install the glass in the windows, and finish some of the floors. Of course, there will also need to be some cleanup of the construction materials, but that won't take long.

Tenderfeet's wonderful partner, the Collette Foundation, has remained steadfast in providing the funding for the construction all the way to the finish line.

In Riruta, the church where Tenderfeet has been located has agreed to let the children remain for a few more days until the building is complete.

In Kibera, the government has promised to demolish the buildings along the railroad tracks -- including Tenderfeet. However, the actions have been delayed because they are expecting a huge backlash, including riots and looting. So we will try to keep the Kibera school going at least for the next few weeks as the story of the railroad tracks unfolds.

Stay tuned for more updates soon.

Esther's New Family

2010-04-10T05:13:00.001-07:00

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Esther Ngina is a 6 year-old orphan girl who has had many challenges in her life.

As you can see from the photo, she's just a little one, but she has a lot of heart for such a small person.

Her story unfolds as a series of heartbreaking events, much like a Charles Dickens novel.

Her mother and father had separated when she was an infant and she remained with her mother.

Sadly, Esther's mother passed away when she was a toddler, and she was taken to live with her father.

Esther's father was not a responsible parent and ended up abandoning Esther and she was taken by relatives to live with her grandmother.

In 2007, when Esther was only 4 years old, her grandmother passed away. At that point, she went to stay with a single Aunt who already had two children of her own.

The Aunt was very harsh and unkind with Esther and gave her many unreasonable chores and responsibilities. When I visited last year, I spent some time at Esther's one-room shack and saw as she bravely handled a lot of the household duties that could have been more fairly shared amongst other members of the family.

She had no toys or dolls, but when she played, she would play with a piece of broken mirror or empty matchbox.

Mama Margaret reported that during this time, Esther often came to school hungry and in tears because of missed meals. We were soon fortunate to find a sponsor for Esther, which helped a lot with the physical struggles she was having -- now she could get the meals she needed.

Unfortunately, the emotional and spiritual challenges remained, because of the harsh environment she endured as long as Esther continued living with her Aunt. After trying to improve the situation for some time, Margaret convinced the family to allow Esther to live with another set of relatives, an Aunt and Uncle nearby.

Although it was a slight improvement, the Uncle was an alcoholic and eventually the Aunt left him, taking her two young children as well as running off with Esther's school uniform and few belongings. This left Esther living alone with an alcoholic who was out late every night, by herself without any security. During this time, she fell victim to chiggers, ringworms, and lice.

Margaret had tried all along to work with Esther's family for her wellbeing, but it became clear she had to intervene. Working with the community child protection office, Margaret was able to find a new home for Esther, living with Margaret's brother Bernard and his family. All her problems with ringworms and other issues have been treated and fixed.

Though he struggles financially -- through no fault of his own -- Bernard is a hard-working and responsible person, with a wonderful wife and young son that is Esther's age and they have become like brother and sister. Esther now has the family she has always deserved.

Thanks to the child sponsorship program, Tenderfeet has been able to assist with Esther's living expenses and transportation to school. Below is Esther in the black shirt, with her new family.

Bushrangers To The Rescue

2010-03-12T22:52:00.000-08:00

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The students of Busselton Senior High School in Australia have been wonderful friends to Tenderfeet. Last August they did a fundraiser that was a tremendous help to the Tenderfeet kids.

Busselton High has a group of students with special challenges. This group has its classes on the school campus, which enables these kids to be an important part of the school community.

Many of these special students belong to an extra-curricular activity group called the Geographe Bushrangers (see photo right). It is similar to a Scouts organization. Bushrangers, like Scouts, participate in activities in nature, camping, and hiking.

Craig Garratt, one of Tenderfeet's great friends in Australia, gave a talk at Busselton High on what life was like in Kibera. When the Bushrangers heard about Tenderfeet, they rallied to the cause.

About the same time, the Bushrangers were planning to undertake a walk along a well-known outdoor trail, the Cape to Cape track which stretches from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin and is about 135 kms long.

The Bushrangers decided to use this opportunity to help Tenderfeet, and planned a mammoth fundraising effort entirely on their own. In particular, they headed out on the Cape to Cape Trail and covered 50 kms (31 mi) over three days after getting sponsorship for the walk. Please see photos below for a few snapshots of their hike.

The funds they raised have helped tremendously both with the Tenderfeet school as well as the special situation of Shadrack's medical assistance.

Isn't it amazing to see true heroes like the Bushrangers come to the aid of orphans and needy children?
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Shadrack Updates

2010-01-16T20:57:00.000-08:00

UPDATE:WEDNESDAY MARCH 10
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Wonderful news! Shadrack is now speaking and able to swallow a bit as well.

Margaret even quizzed him a little and his memory is strong. Thank you for your continued prayers and concern.

UPDATE: SATURDAY FEB 27

Yesterday, Shadrack was at long last discharged from the hospital. He still has a tough road ahead as he recovers from his stroke-like symptoms.

Shadrack has difficulty getting around, and cannot speak or swallow. However, the doctors feel that he no longer needs to be in the hospital, because the abscess drainage issue has been addressed with the two brain surgeries.

A wheelchair was purchased and Shaddy will receive home nursing assistance for the next three months. Over that time, the home nurse will help with the feeding and Shadrack is expected to continue his recovery.

Thank you for your prayers, concern, and financial assistance. His life has literally been saved because of such wonderful friends and the contributions to his medical care. Additional donations will help with the ongoing care for Shadrack.

Below is a picture of Shadrack in the hospital wheelchair, and his new wheelchair is to the left. Mama Margaret and his grandmother are standing behind.

Below is Shadrack with a welcome smile and his grandmother in the vehicle.

UPDATE: TUESDAY FEB 23

Today Mama Odoyo visited Shadrack, he is making a bit of progress every day. They have started him on a program of physical therapy, and he was trying his best to do activities like squeeze a ball in his hand.

Shadrack is supposed to be released from the hospital soon. Even though he has not recovered fully, they believe he is ready to transition to home care.

His symptoms resemble those of a stroke victim and hopefully, in time, he'll be as good as new.

We also got the medical bill summary. After 5 weeks in the hospital, plus an MRI and two brain surgeries, the bill has gotten quite big.

Right now, we have an $800 deficit just to cover the existing bill. Follow-up care, including medicine and doctor's visits, is expected to reach an estimated $1000 in the next month or so.

If you would like to contribute, any amount would help tremendously. To make a donation, please click here. You can fill out the form (with your donation amount) as you see below:

UPDATE: SUNDAY FEB 20

Mama Margaret writes:

"Today I visited Shaddy and we put him on a wheel chair and took some pictures which I have attached.

Though he can't communicate he can hear and smile. He's still being fed through nose. I told him to smile while I took the pictures and he tried so there is hope he will be well."

Shadrack will have a CT scan early next week to see if the blood clot in his brain has dissolved.

UPDATE: WEDNESDAY FEB 17

No major change today, Shadrack is still in the hospital.

Mama Margaret visited today and said Shadrack is still being fed through a nose tube and cannot speak.

She was heartened that when she sang him some of his favorite songs, he smiled and his face brightened.

Thank you for your continued prayers and concern.

UPDATE: SUNDAY FEB 14

Mama Margaret visited today and said Shadrack is the same as on Friday. They are encouraged because he is out of the coma and hoping for more improvement.

He will continue taking blood thinners for several more days to ensure that the clot is completely dissolved.

UPDATE: FRIDAY FEB 12

The first good news in a while -- Shadrack woke up today and was able to move around a little.

Although he wasn't able to speak, he could hear and seemed to understand what he was being told. When Mama Margaret asked him how he was doing, he reached out his arms and showed he understood.

Margaret could not track down any doctors, but the nurses are assuring Margaret that we need to be patient, and that they are expecting him to recover fully.

Thank you for your continued concern and prayers for Shadrack. Please continue to pray for his progress, and also for his grandmother who has been with him for almost a month in the hospital.

UPDATE: THURSDAY FEB 11

Shadrack is still in a coma. There was concern about bleeding from the nose. If I understand correctly, they have started to attack the blood clot with medication.

Mama Margaret keeps saying the doctors want us to be patient. We all feel helpless, but Margaret says all we can do is keep praying and have him in our thoughts and hearts.

The above right picture was taken last year at the Treeside school with some of his friends.

UPDATE: TUESDAY FEB 9

The situation remains very critical.

Shadrack is still in a coma being fed through the nostrils.

The MRI scan shows that there is a blood clot in the brain. The doctors are planning to try to remove it through medication. If it doesn't work, they will perform another surgery.

UPDATE: MONDAY FEB 8

The situation has remained very serious, with Shadrack still unresponsive today. The doctors decided to transport him by ambulance to a major Nairobi hospital so that an MRI scan could be done.

The hope is the scan will reveal why the recovery is not going as smoothly as expected.

The results should be back in the next day or two, and at that point we should hopefully know more.

Right now all we can do is wait and pray.

UPDATE: SATURDAY FEB 6

Mama Odoyo visited Shadrack today. He's still non-responsive. They tried to feed him through a tube in his nose, but were unsuccessful.

Margaret was explaining more to me today regarding the purpose of the surgically-implanted tube.

It goes inside his body from Shadrack's brain to stomach, and is supposed to stay in long-term, maybe for the rest of his life. That will ensure that the fluid will never build up again. She said that the doctor's have done this procedure numerous times successfully.

Now it's just a matter of waiting and praying for his recovery.

UPDATE: FRIDAY FEB 5

The doctors were able to regulate Shadrack's temperature as the week progressed.

They also started having Shadrack do some walking around and stretching to counter the problems with being in a bed for two weeks.

The plan was to have a new tube inserted yesterday going from Shadrack's brain to stomach. I received the following update from Mama Margaret through text message. I tried to call a bit later but couldn't get through because of network problems.

Mama Margaret says: "I am on my way back from Kijabe. They fixed the tube yesterday evening. Ever since, he can't communicate, see, swallow, or move any part of the body. He is on a drip. The doctor said we will observe him for three days and he will be OK. But my heart is broken when watching Shaddy laying helpless and unconscious. I can't stop shedding tears."

Let's hope that Shadrack recovers as the doctors have indicated. Thank you for your prayers for Shadrack and those helping him.

UPDATE: MONDAY FEB 1

Because his temperature was too high and the doctors couldn't get it down, the surgery planned for today was postponed.

Hopefully, they can control it better tomorrow and finish the procedure.

UPDATE: SUNDAY JAN 31

Shadrack is getting stronger and is continuing in his recovery. He's now been in the hospital for two weeks.

Tomorrow, he will be in the operating room while they connect the tube from his brain to his stomach to help more with the drainage.

We still don't know for sure when he will be released. Thank you for the prayers and concern for Shadrack.

UPDATE: THURSDAY JAN 28

Mama Margaret visited Shadrack today. He has been moved to another ward, which is a sign of progress.

He is weak and cannot sit up for long, but overall feels OK. The tests came back and everything is as the doctors hoped.

Now they are going to have the tube run from his brain to (get ready) his stomach, where the drainage will take place though his digestive system. It sounds like nothing I've heard of before, but apparently this is something they do in the later stages of this kind of situation.

Shadrack's grandmother is still with him and doing well. Mama Margaret says she prays and reads the Bible throughout the day and is a pillar of strength despite her own poor health.

Shadrack is expected to be in the hospital for approximately another week, though a lot of things can change. The doctors want to stabilize his temperature and complete the drainage before he will be released.

UPDATE: WEDNESDAY JAN 27

Shadrack is still in the hospital. The doctors got a sample of fluid from his brain and have sent it off for tests. We are expecting the tests to come back today or tomorrow.

He is feeling well, though he has setbacks like stomach problems or his temperature fluctuates. Depending on the tests and whether he becomes more stabilized with the setbacks, he will hopefully be released before too long.

Mama Margaret has been in Kisii the past several days for a funeral. She will be visiting Shadrack tomorrow.

UPDATE: FRIDAY JAN 22

Good news, Shadrack is making progress. Although the tube has not yet been removed, the fluid is now draining clear. This is showing the doctors that the bacteria is out of the brain.

Also, Shadrack was able to stand up and even walk a little. While he was in the hospital in Kisumu, he couldn't even stand.

We don't know yet when he will be released, but hopefully we will know in the next few days. Please find a picture of Shadrack, right, with Tenderfeet's social worker, Dorothy Odoyo.

UPDATE: TUESDAY JAN 19

Here are some pictures taken of Shadrack. The first one, you can see clearly the drainage tube and some of the fluid that has been drained.

Below is Mama Margaret with Shadrack

This is Shadrack's grandmother

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UPDATE: MONDAY JAN 18

Mama Margaret and Mama Odoyo (Tenderfeet's new social worker) traveled to Kijabe today. It's about 2 hours each way. Margaret wanted to send photos but the network is too slow.

Shadrack is doing well, all things considered. The drainage tube is still inserted, so far 1 liter (34 oz) of fluid has been drained. The fluid has a lot of bacteria and is blood-tainted. The tube may be removed in the next day or two.

The doctors believe Shadrack may have fallen or had an accidental bump to the back of the head -- accompanied by an infection -- that triggered this abscess. Whereas the first one in 2007 was on the left side of his head, this one is on the right. The doctors believe he will not need further surgery in the future.

They believe all these problems can be traced to meningitis that Shadrack had as a baby.

Shaddy can speak and knows Mama Margaret, but can't remember many other things. She asked, "do you remember Ezra?" Shadrack said, "I don't know who Ezra is." Ezra is Mama Margaret's youngest child, and has been Shadrack's playmate for the past 3 years. It is possible that his memory will return over time, though.

We don't know how long he will be in the hospital, but the nurses and doctors are very kind and friendly. Shadrack's grandmother is staying with him in the hospital, though she herself is not in great health. Mama Odoyo made the grandmother a nice yummy meal, and Mama Margaret left some money to buy food.

They discussed how Shadrack's aunt abandoned him in 2007, and the grandmother was ashamed of her family for what happened and said if her own health had not been so poor, she would have gladly taken Shadrack in.

Tomorrow, Margaret's 18-year old daughter Winnie will go with Teacher Karen to visit Shadrack. Hopefully, we will have some good news tomorrow and photos will be coming as well. Thank you for your continued prayers.

UPDATE: SATURDAY JAN 16

Shadrack left last night from Kisumu by ambulance. He arrived early in the morning at Kijabe and had the brain surgery today at 11:00 AM Kenya time (9 hours ahead of central time). Big thanks go to Dan for getting the wire done on such short notice.

Margaret visited at Kijabe and they had inserted a tube into Shaddy's brain to continue the drainage. His grandmother (I didn't know she was living) will be staying in the hospital with him.

He was awake and talking to Margaret, though he was still pretty confused overall. Margaret couldn't talk to the doctors today, and the nurses weren't able to give her a lot of information. I asked a ton of questions, but mostly we won't know much until the doctors talk to Margaret.

All things considered, I think we are fortunate but now it is day by day. Thank you so much for your prayers and concern for Shadrack.
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Shadrack's Emergency Situation

2010-01-14T05:48:00.000-08:00

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Shadrack Otieno (see photo, taken a few weeks ago) is a very special and beloved boy in the Tenderfeet family.

He is having a medical crisis right now, requiring brain surgery. You can read the full story below.

If you want to help, please donate at this link. Please make sure to type "Shadrack" in the "Donation Destination" box. All funds received will go exclusively to Shadrack's medical needs.

To see how to fill out the donation options, please scroll down for a screenshot.

Shadrack is an orphan who first came to Tenderfeet in 2006. At that time, he suffered terribly from seizures, headaches, and nosebleeds.

He was diagnosed with a brain abscess in late 2006. In March 2007, thanks to some amazing friends, he had a life-saving surgery.

Sadly, he was abandoned by his guardian while he was in the hospital. Mama Margaret became his legal guardian and he has been cared for by her ever since. He recovered completely from the surgery and has been doing great for the past three years.

His ongoing medical care and educational expenses have been sponsored by a wonderful youth group, Corby's Castle.

Over the past six months, some of Shadrack's relatives have reached out and wanted to have him come visit. These aren't the same relatives that abandoned him, and so Margaret arranged for Shadrack's Aunt Ruth (photo above, on the right) to come pick him up in Nairobi and escort him back to the Kisumu area over the Christmas holiday.

When Shadrack got to his family's home, he became very ill. Initially, it was believed he was suffering from Malaria. But his condition worsened, and he has had severe headaches and now cannot walk. He is now in critical condition.

A CT scan was done and another abscess was detected. The doctors are recommending he have another surgery to treat the problem. He will be transported by ambulance to Kijabe hospital, near Nairobi. Kijabe is a top-notch and highly respected hospital that has provided great treatment for Lucy.

The surgery and related medical costs are expected to be approximately $3500, which is roughly the same cost as the first surgery. For a brain surgery, at least by American standards, it's relatively inexpensive.

However, it is still a tremendous amount of money for a small project like Tenderfeet. Any assistance you can provide will be deeply appreciated.

To help save Shadrack, please click here or on the image below. You can donate any amount, but $50 is shown in the image just as an example. Thank you for your prayers and concern.

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First Week of School

2010-01-08T04:51:00.000-08:00

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This past week may be the most hectic week of the entire year at Tenderfeet. The school year begins for Kenyans in January, and that makes for a busy schedule helping children in transition.

Tenderfeet is assisting four new girls in their secondary education. They are Nancy Moraa (pictured right, she is the youngest sister of Sharon Kwamboka's deceased mother), Mercy Wanjiru, Lucy Wanjiku (middle daughter of Regina Wanja from Eldoret), and Carol Ndirangu (former Tenderfeet student).

Nancy and Mercy will probably go to a boarding school in Nyahururu. Carol is starting her second year of high school, but we only recently started the sponsorship (last year, her education was interrupted because she could not pay). We are still trying to decide on the best course of action for Lucy, but she is likely to go to vocational school.

Mama Margaret has also been assisting with some other children in other parts of Kenya. She has been coordinating the payment of school fees for a boy named Dennis in Mombasa, as well as two children named Ann and Peter who have relocated from Eldoret. We also have three current high school students that are being assisted, Arian Ogo, Kevin Ochoki, and Emily Nyabura.

Meanwhile, there are new children being admitted to Tenderfeet. We will be admitting 20 new children to have 80 in all. The government educational officers have threatened to close the school if Tenderfeet doesn't have at least 40 at each of the two school locations.

There were 65 previously, but now 5 have gone on to the next level, meaning 20 have to be added. Mama Margaret has already interviewed a few families, and will continue the work next week. It's difficult because there are so many children out there in need of education, but at the same time, it's important to find ones that are the most deserving.

Finally, the 5 Tenderfeet graduates are in the process of enrolling. Brian Mungai, who lives in Riruta, is going to Bensesa school. The four other children are on the waiting list to got to Olympic Primary in Kibera, but Olympic is only admitting 20 new students and there are 107 in the queue. If they can't be admitted there, Mama Margaret will try to get them in at Soweto Academy.

This was all made more challenging because one of our wonderful Tenderfeet staff members, Mercy, has left Tenderfeet to start her own project. This left us short-handed, but we are fortunate to have a recent addition to the staff, Carol Warimu.
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Christmas Construction Updates

2009-12-20T06:26:00.001-08:00

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Merry Christmas from Tenderfeet!

Construction on the Tenderfeet school foundation continues, slowly but surely. Please see photos below. Notice the beautiful red soil in the photos. One of the main reasons this land was chosen over many others is because of the soil quality.

Red soil is the ideal soil for construction, it doesn't shift or settle like clay soil, which is a nightmare to construct on and can wreck foundations in the long term. You can also see the new Tenderfeet water tank, which is absolutely necessary due to water shortages and problems in Nairobi.

Deepest thanks go to the Collette Foundation as always. They have been working with Tenderfeet for years to realize this dream, and have been the sponsor of both the land and building. None of this would be possible without their commitment to the vision of Tenderfeet having a permanent home.

This photo shows the truck that visits to supply water.

Here is Margaret with the piles of large stones used for walls.

Building materials with the caretaker building in the background.

The foundation for the school rooms. There will initially be three classrooms, an office, a kitchen, and a storeroom.

The new water tank.

Tenderfeet Profiles: Collins Onyongo

2009-12-17T00:18:00.000-08:00

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Collins Onyongo is seven years old and in first grade. He is a quiet student and works hard in school. His father died of AIDS several years ago, and his mother discovered that she also is HIV positive, though she didn't want to admit it for a long time. Many HIV victims deny it at first because they are ashamed and will be treated badly by some in the community.

Collins has an older sister named Arian who also went to Tenderfeet, but she is older now and has started High School this year, thanks to a sponsor. It's very rare for kids from Kibera to go to High School, and Collins hopes to go as well.

Collins mother has been very sick in the past. She is very smart and hard working, but because of her illness, she lost her job selling lottery tickets. At one point in 2007, the family was locked out of their own home because they could not pay rent. They also had no food. Then the Tenderfeet teachers found out and started helping. The rent was paid, food was purchased, and Collins' mom was taken to the doctor. Things are much better for the family now.

In the past, Collins was also sick frequently. He was tested for HIV, and we found out he is HIV positive and has the disease. Thanks to the ARV drugs he is now taking, he is feeling strong like any healthy boy. Even though Collins has HIV, he is treated just like any other student at Tenderfeet, a place where he is loved and knows he belongs to a special family.
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Fundraiser for Tenderfeet Graduates

2009-12-05T17:38:00.000-08:00

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This year, five children will "graduate" from Tenderfeet. The school teaches children up through 2nd grade, so students going into 3rd grade will move on to the next level.

The five children are pictured right. From left to right they are Sharon Kwamboka, Ian Aloo, Sofia Kemunto, Brian Mungai, and Brian Nyaanga. All have been at Tenderfeet for 5 years.

The new school year starts in January. For these five kids, it is a huge step and normally one that is devastating for slum families.

Primary school is supposed to be free in Kenya, but when you add up all the hidden fees, cost of uniform, PE kit, books, and school supplies, the minimum to start school is about $90 US. That's 3 months earnings for most of these families.

What typically happens is that the child's extended family collects contributions and fundraises in the community, but has to make harsh sacrifices in the process and still may not be able to raise enough.

The stress and pressure can be almost too much for families to bear. This is especially tough during Christmas time when families are already short on money due to the fact they are expected to visit relatives in the countryside.

Even if enough is raised, there are lots of associated expenses in the first term and children are sent home in many cases. It often happens that such children get behind over time and never catch up fully.

I hope I've managed to convey the immense difficulties facing these young children. That is why a fundraiser was organized at ION Geophysical in Houston, Texas.

ION has been a great friend to Tenderfeet over the years -- many employees are sponsors, and fundraisers have been held to assist with important Tenderfeet needs.

The theme was "A Holiday of Giving," in line with the Thanksgiving holiday in the US. It is a time when Americans reflect on and give thanks for the blessings they have, as well as remember and reach out to those who are less fortunate.

The fundraising team printed photos of each of the five children, as well as the school expenses they each faced ($5 for a math text book, $15 for school shoes, etc.). These photos and cards were attached to a "leaf" and many leaves were assembled in a colorful display (see photos).

ION employees who came through the break rooms on one of several floors could pick out a leaf and sponsor that child's particular need (for example, new shoes for Sharon).

The response was wonderful and enough money was raised not just to cover the minimum needs but also to purchase a second uniform for each child. In addition, a surplus amount will be used to assist new students arriving at Tenderfeet.

Now the Tenderfeet graduates will be off to school next month with big smiles on their faces. They will be ready for a strong start now that they will be fully equipped for school, thanks to the kindhearted and generous employees of ION.

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Two Members of the Tenderfeet Family Pass Away

2009-11-14T14:08:00.000-08:00

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We've had some very sad news recently at Tenderfeet. Two dear members of the Tenderfeet family have succumbed to HIV/AIDS.

Susan Wanjiku was the house helper for Mama Margaret. At any given time, there may be 10 children staying at the small house Margaret lives in, which means there is so much cooking, cleaning, and washing that needs to be done.

Susan was a sweet and quiet woman in her thirties. She had acquired HIV through her husband who passed away.

I stayed in Margaret's house for two weeks this year, and was fortunate enough to spend time with Susan during that time. I always enjoyed her smile and kind spirit. I think she got a chuckle or two out of my strange American ways of doing things. The world needs more gentle souls like Susan's.

The other member of the Tenderfeet family that was recently lost was a young boy named Clinton Rwoti. He's the boy in the front row of the photo, he has the red jacket and is on the left.

Clinton became a Tenderfeet student in 2006. The photo of him was taken in January of 2007. When I visited in September of 2007, he was already missing a lot of school because of his health.

Whereas a lot of young people that are HIV positive respond to the ARV drugs, Clinton unfortunately was often struggling with his condition.

His family fled Kibera during the 2008 post-election riots and settled in a rural community.

When his health recently became much worse, he was taken to Kenyatta National Hospital, but they could not save him. He passed away in the hospital.

Margaret was informed through a friend after Clinton's untimely death, and didn't know until it was too late he was in the hospital. She was heartbroken to see such a precious young person taken by this horrible disease.

Almost every child of Tenderfeet has been affected by HIV/AIDS in one way or another, many lost one or both parents to the disease, and some are even infected themselves. Our hope is that through education and love we can fight the disease on behalf of wonderful people like Susan and Clinton, so that the next generations will not know the suffering and tragedy that this generation has faced.
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Tenderfeet Profiles: Sharon Kwamboka

2009-11-10T20:19:00.001-08:00

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Sharon Kwamboka was born May 9, 2002. She is in 2nd grade at Tenderfeet, and one of the top students at the school. Her mother and father both have passed away from AIDS, and Sharon lives with her grandparents.

The three youngest siblings of Sharon's mother also reside in the family's one-room shack -- for a total of six living in the tiny home. There is no indoor plumbing or bathroom, instead the family shares an unsanitary pit latrine with hundreds of other nearby residents. Please click here for a photo album of Sharon and family.

Sharon's grandfather is very ill, so her grandmother must earn a living for the whole family washing clothes whenever she can find work. This hardworking grandmother is lucky if she can earn more than $30 in a month.

The family was really struggling in the past few years, especially with the monthly rent of $15. It looked like the family would be thrown out by the landlord because they were so far behind in paying rent, but in late 2008, a sponsor was found for Sharon.

With the monthly donations from Sharon's sponsor, the family began to slowly catch up on rent, as well as receiving assistance with food and clothing. Sharon's sponsor lives in Canada, but despite the vast distance between them, has already made a huge impact on improving Sharon's life. She now has a chance to have a hopeful future, one free of the crushing burdens of poverty.
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Construction Update

2009-10-23T05:39:00.001-07:00

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Thanks to the generous support of the Collette Foundation, Tenderfeet has purchased land and is now in the process of constructing a school building.

It took several frustrating months to get all the permits and approvals from the Nairobi City Council, Road Commission, and so on, but at long last we have started the first steps of construction.

Before building the actual school rooms, a semi-permanent iron sheet shed had to be erected (see photo right). Materials will be stored here, and a security guard will use it as a base of operations to ensure none of the construction items are stolen. High-grade iron sheet was used so that it can't be broken into.

The next steps involve laying the foundation, putting up the walls, columns, roof, plastering, etc. There will be 3 fairly large classrooms, a storeroom, kitchen, and school office when everything is complete.

This school facility is the realization of a dream that began many years ago, and will be a fulfilling and wonderful sanctuary to children growing up in the harsh and unsanitary slums.

It will provide peace of mind to a school that has been kicked out of every facility it has ever called home because of landlords who are either dishonest, find the children a bother, or decide they can imitate Tenderfeet for their own benefit. In fact, just recently, we were notified that we will be kicked out of the church we are using in Riruta because the church wants to start another project.
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Tenderfeet Profiles: Moses Murigi

2009-09-28T02:47:00.000-07:00

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Moses Murigi is a 5 year old orphan boy who grew up in Kibera, the largest slum in Africa. His mother and father died when he was little. Moses has an older brother named Brown and an older sister named Faith. Brown and Faith both went to a school for needy children called Tenderfeet. Almost all schools in Kenya cost money that Moses' family could not afford, but Tenderfeet is free.

When he became old enough to start at Tenderfeet in January 2007, he started going, too. Moses, together with siblings and cousins, all lived in a tiny shac k and were raised by their Grandmother. He grew up in a home without running water, a bathroom, trash pickup, electricity, or any of the conveniences that most of us are used to.

In January of 2008, riots broke out all across Kenya, especially in Kibera where Moses lived. All of the people from the Kikuyu group became targets for the angry rioters, which sadly included Moses and his family. The little shack he lived in was burned down, along with everything he owned. His family barely escaped alive, and lived outside for many days in a camp for families like his.

With the help of Tenderfeet, Moses and his family got food supplies. The Tenderfeet team helped Moses' family find a safe place to live, and now they live in a new area called Riruta where Moses still goes to school at Tenderfeet. He is learning the important basics like reading, writing, and math which will be the key to him doing well in the next levels of his learning.

In Kenya, life is very hard for orphans like Moses. Most are not able to go to school and will grow up without the education that is needed to escape a life of poverty. Because of generous Tenderfeet donors in Australia, England, Canada, America, and many other countries, Moses has a great chance at a brighter future.
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Lucy is Going Home

2009-09-17T11:53:00.001-07:00

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Lucy's hospital bill was paid. Huge thanks to Dan Holcomb for his hectic scrambling to get the wire transfer done, despite the fact he was leaving the next day to go to Uganda.

Now Lucy is feeling much better and her leg wound has been taken care of. She will go home first thing Friday morning. So once she fully recovers from the operation she had this past Monday, she should be OK for the long term.

Her hospital bill was paid by sponsors in Texas, an amount her family could never afford. Children in Kenya die every day because they can't pay for medical care, so we are deeply thankful that loving friends from far away have come to Lucy's rescue.

At right is a photo of Lucy taken by Mama Margaret last Saturday when Lucy was still dealing with the allergic reaction.

Lucy Updates

2009-09-10T11:44:00.001-07:00

UPDATE WEDNESDAY, 9:00 PM KENYA TIME

Lucy should be discharged from the hospital on Thursday. She has recovered enough to go home, and if everything goes according to plan, she will be in Nyahururu by tomorrow night.

UPDATE TUESDAY, 5:00 PM KENYA TIME

I spoke with Lucy and her dad today. She was very tired but doing better. The swelling and rash have gotten much better.

The hospital won't tell them how much the bill is or when she is supposed to be discharged. So we're playing the waiting game right now. Hopefully, tomorrow, we'll know more.

Overall, it's very good news that she has responded to the excellent hospital care.

UPDATE MONDAY, 9:00 PM KENYA TIME

Lucy underwent surgery on her leg today. The doctors removed bad tissue (I think that means damaged and/or infected) and sealed the sore (I'm not sure how they sealed it).

She is recovering and we're hoping this will fix the problem once and for all. Thank you for your prayers and concern.

We're supposed to find out the hospital bill tomorrow. If you would like to assist, please contact me at dmitchell@lahash.net.

UPDATE SUNDAY, 9:00 PM KENYA TIME

I sent an SMS to Mama Margaret to ask if she had any updates on Lucy. Here is her reply:

Maybe tomorrow in the afternoon I have the information on Lucy. Please be patient, all will be fine but even if Lucy is smiling her health is not good. We continue praying for God to heal her.

UPDATE SATURDAY, 6:00 PM KENYA TIME

Today Mama Margaret traveled to Kijabe (about 2 or 3 hours by bus) to visit Lucy and Lucy's mom. Lucy's dad has returned to Nyahururu to take care of Lucy's younger sister Shiro.

Lucy's mom is staying in the room with Lucy, but didn't even have any money to buy meals for herself. Margaret took some money to help Lucy's mom be able to buy some meals in the hospital cafeteria.

Margaret stayed a few hours and said Lucy was still not fully recovered from the allergic reaction (rash and swelling). Lucy was not feeling very well, but in Margaret's words "could still afford a smile". I spoke briefly with Lucy and managed to get her to chuckle a little bit at some of my small jokes.

The main problem now is the deep sore on the back of her leg that won't heal. It needs to be operated on again, probably Monday. It's badly infected and the tissue has never healed back after the permanent stitches were removed last year. The doctors will go in and clean and hopefully can put in some stitches or a similar solution that will allow it to finally heal.

The reason it got so infected is probably because she was on break last month and was more idle and sitting down than she is during school, allowing the bacteria to really make headway.

Margaret said when Lucy arrived in Kijabe, things were very desperate and if it had been much longer it may have been too late for Lucy. The sad thing is if she had been properly diagnosed in Nyahururu, it would not have gotten so bad, but the hospital in Nyahururu misdiagnosed the problem and gave Lucy de-worming medication instead of recognizing the real issue.

UPDATE FRIDAY, 6:00 PM KENYA TIME

Lucy is still suffering from a rash and is very swollen, but they have given her medicine to neutralize the allergic reaction to the other medicine.

Her wound (the same one from 2007 that has never healed properly) was cleaned, treated and dressed today. The infection has gotten into the bloodstream so they are treating her for septicemia (blood poisoning). This is also related to her kidney problem, because the kidneys were not properly filtering impurities.

Lucy is very uncomfortable because of the rash and swelling but is not in extreme pain. She is terribly upset, however, about missing school which shows what kind of special girl she is.

Margaret is going to try to visit tomorrow and get a full assessment of the situation, including how long Lucy will need to remain in the hospital. Fortunately, thanks to her sponsors, she has NHIF, which is a Kenyan insurance that helps cover room and board.

However, the hospital will not release her until the full bill is paid, and the expenses are adding up with tests, procedures, and medication. If you would like to assist in her costs, please contact me at dmitchell@lahash.net.

UPDATE THURSDAY, 9:45 PM KENYA TIME

I received the following set of text messages from Lucy's dad (pictured right with Lucy in 2007). More updates will be provided as they become available tomorrow.

We went there and she was given various tests, even a kidney X-Ray. The results showed the kidney is OK, but one is smaller. About the swelling, they said it is an allergy to the medicine because she has taken for a long time.

Now she has been admitted because of the wound. It will be operated on tomorrow. We hope God will be the great doctor.

Please Pray for Lucy

2009-09-09T11:57:00.000-07:00

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Lucy Thama recently turned 13 years old. She is in 6th grade and has had a very difficult life.

She was born a conjoined ("Siamese") twin, but the other twin was never living. They were separated at 9 months by a kindhearted surgeon who did the procedure for free. When she was 4 years old, she lost the feeling and use of her legs and since then has been paralyzed from the waist down.

In 2007, she almost died from a terrible infection on her leg, the sore was so big and deep it almost went to the bone. She received a skin graft at Kijabe hospital and recovered over a period of months (read about it here). Soon thereafter, she and her family was almost killed during the post-election riots (the story is here).

After the riots, her family relocated in the peaceful area of Nyahururu and thanks to her sponsors, she has been attending a wonderful school and has done great the past 18 months. Please see photo of Lucy with some of her textbooks, taken in January 2009.

Recently, she has fallen quite ill, and now the situation is very serious. One doctor said her kidneys may have failed, and another said it was a reaction to medicine she was taking. She will travel to Kijabe hospital (about 3 hours away), leaving at 2:00 AM this morning, to arrive at 5:00 AM. Her parents are at the end of their rope, and they can't stand to see Lucy suffer.

Please pray for Lucy and her family. You will never meet a more sweet, fun, and lively girl. She is bright and happy, and it is heartbreaking to see her going through so much pain. Please stay tuned for updates soon.

High Schoolers with Big Hearts

2009-08-26T17:26:00.000-07:00

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Students at Busselton Senior High School in Busselton, Western Australia wanted to make a difference. They heard about the vulnerable children of the Kenyan slums and decided to get involved through assisting the Tenderfeet school.
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These clever High Schoolers came up with a fun way to help. At their school, students are required to wear a uniform, but they decided to break the rules (with permission, of course).

In cooperation with the High School administration, a "uniform free day" was organized. The idea is that students would get fined on purpose by wearing regular clothes rather than their uniform, and the administration would use the fine money to go to charity.

It's not often High School students get to break the rules with the blessing of adults! As a result, over $300 US was raised, 100% of which will be used to improve the lives of Tenderfeet kids.

Below is a picture of the students who participated, along with longtime Tenderfeet friend, Craig Garratt, who helped organize the event. Thanks to Craig and the kindhearted Busselton students who made this happen!

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Records and Receipts

2009-08-16T18:45:00.001-07:00

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Tenderfeet works very hard to be a project of the highest integrity. One key is in maintaining transparent records and keeping all receipts.

Please see the scanned set of receipts (from this past December) for various items used for the childrens' food program. Note that the amounts are in Kenyan Shillings -- approximately 70 per US dollar.

Tenderfeet also employs an independent accountant named Jared Ombasa Mogere who double checks and audits all receipts, including those for food, the sponsorship program, and special fundraisers.

He also follows through to the extent of checking if Tenderfeet is getting a good price for various items and checking with sponsored families to see that they received all that they were supposed to.

In addition, every 3 months, Tenderfeet must send detailed records from the previous quarter in report form to Lahash. Also, photocopies of all receipts (like those pictured) are mailed from Kenya to the US. These records and receipts are examined carefully to ensure full accountability.

Finally, Tenderfeet is a registered Community Based Organization (CBO) in Kenya. This means that a rigid set of requirements must be met, including an oversight board and following strict policies. Pictured here are the chairperson and secretary of the Tenderfeet Board, which is composed of community leaders who are experienced in education and service.

Many projects in developing nations such as Kenya suffer from some degree of corruption, which can hurt everyone, from the donors to the children who should be served. Most of these projects are not registered CBO charities like Tenderfeet, nor do these corrupt projects include the oversight and accountability measures Tenderfeet uses. The way to fight and eliminate corruption is to use safeguards like those used at Tenderfeet.

Tenderfeet goes the extra mile to achieve the highest levels of integrity, to guarantee that it is a project that honors God and serves its children fully.
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Mosquito Nets for the Kids

2009-07-29T04:19:00.000-07:00

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Cornerstone Methodist Church in Houston has come through again. This time help was needed in the fight against Malaria, an excruciating and potentially deadly disease that is hardest on children.

During the past few months, Mama Margaret said that almost every child in Tenderfeet had missed school at one point or another due to Malaria.

The best way to combat Malaria is by sleeping under a mosquito net at night.

Although a treated net costs only $10, it's money the families can't spare when compared to food or rent.

Moreover, food, water, and charcoal prices have continued to climb. For example, a bag of charcoal in January was around 800 shillings ($12), but now has risen to as high as 1500 shillings ($21). One bag lasts about two weeks. When a family lives on $30-$40 per month, it becomes almost impossible to pay for anything but the essentials, even a mosquito net.

So a Vacation Bible School fundraiser was held at Cornerstone to help the children be able to have the safety and protection of mosquito nets. Over $600 was raised by the VBS kids, which was enough for every Tenderfeet child to get a mosquito net. The first photo shows some of the Kibera kids with the nets, and below shows the Riruta students with the nets (in front of the new school location).

Since the nets were distributed last week, not a single child of Tenderfeet has gotten Malaria. Thank you so much Cornerstone!
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Twitter for Tenderfeet

2009-07-22T06:23:00.001-07:00

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I usually speak with Mama Margaret about 30 minutes per week, and there are often numerous interesting little updates, but they are often not included in blog posts even though I would love to share them. For example:

In Slum Survivors,there was a struggling mother, Carol Warimu. Mama Margaret is tracking her down & a donor has provided assistance for Carol
Because the weather has been very cold lately, many Tenderfeet kids have gotten sick lately & been treated,including Shadrack,Shiro,& Samwel

These small updates are ideal for Twitter, and a Tenderfeet account has been set up:

http://twitter.com/Tenderfeet

The goal is to have several Twitter updates per week, and for instance, the two updates above have already been turned into "tweets". So follow Tenderfeet on Twitter and get a behind the scenes look at what's happening!
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July Updates

2009-07-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

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It's been hectic the last few weeks at Tenderfeet.

In Kibera, Teacher Karen is on leave after having a baby girl. This means the school is getting by with volunteers (teachers in training), but the drawback is they are not always as reliable or hardworking as a wonderful teacher like Karen. Last week, the volunteer didn't show up for school one day, which makes it hard on the staff.

Good news in Kibera is that children like Wickliff and Arian are getting some help. Wickliff and 3 other children have been sharing a bed with no mattress, instead using empty sacks for padding. He also had no boots to wear in the muddy conditions, so a special donation was used to purchase a mattress for Wickliff (see right) and a pair of boots (called "gumboots" in Kenya).

Another child that received assistance was Arian Ogo, who was having trouble seeing the chalkboard in school. Thanks to a special donation, she is going to be able to get glasses.

In Riruta, the school was kicked out of their previous location (where it's been located since February 2008) by the Ministry of Education. A policy exists that school classrooms cannot be located in a residential compound. The idea behind the policy is to prevent young children from accidentally wandering into the wrong door and end up in a potentially dangerous person's room instead of class. Since the Riruta school was in a residential compound, Tenderfeet was given notice that it had to leave by the end of June.

Now the school has moved to a church. The rent is more expensive, and it will be a challenge to cover this in the budget -- as well as all the school expenses, which have been going up this year. So we are more grateful than ever for our friends and sponsors throughout the world who keep the school running strong.

Day of the African Child

2009-06-21T19:34:00.000-07:00

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Edwin Angote, the Lahash Representative for East Africa, has written a terrific article about the big event last week called "Day of the African Child". Below is a picture of the kids from Tenderfeet that attended. Please click here to read Edwin's article.

Fundraisers Making a Difference

2009-06-09T05:26:00.000-07:00

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This is an article about two fundraisers for Tenderfeet that really have made a difference for the kids.

The first one was the Christmas fundraiser for school uniforms. As mentioned in other posts, school uniforms are not optional in Kenya. They are required of all schools.

Since Tenderfeet kids are very needy, the uniform requirement has been relaxed, but at the risk that the Education Ministry would shut down the school. In addition, Tenderfeet kids were often embarrassed because they had to wear tattered and ill-fitting uniforms, or no uniforms at all.

Thanks to the generosity of Christmas donors, as well as a fundraiser by fifth graders at Cornerstone Church in Houston, enough money was raised to purchase uniforms for every Tenderfeet child. In addition, shoes were donated by a kindhearted visitor named Nish.

It took several months to get all the uniforms hand-made, which involved purchasing material all the way back in January (during my visit). Mama Margaret chose the most economical approach to every step, while ensuring that good-quality uniforms were the result. The first slide show captures the steps involved.

The second fundraiser was by the youth group Corby's Castle, who held a flag-football fundraiser to enable the school to have new desks. The old desks were falling apart, and some children had no desks at all, which meant using their laps instead. The following slide show illustrates the huge improvement the new desks provide.

Slum Survivors Documentary

2009-05-23T06:24:00.000-07:00

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The United Nations has a news agency called IRIN focusing on humanitarian issues. IRIN has produced a remarkably insightful documentary on Kibera. The video reveals the good, bad, and ugly about Kibera by profiling various residents of the slum.

I hope that if you are interested in Tenderfeet, you will watch the whole 40-minute video, it really is an absolute must in fully understanding the challenges of the school.

In the film, you will hear references to the Kenyan currency of shillings. Note that 100 shillings is about $1.30.

You will see a mother named Carol who washes clothes for a living. In fact, just like Carol, most of the Tenderfeet guardians also wash clothes to earn what little they have. Almost all the guardians are widows or their husbands have abandoned the family.

The going rate for washing clothes in Kibera is 200 shillings -- it is hard work that can take hours. One is considered lucky if one can find 2 or 3 jobs washing clothes in a week and substantial time is spent going door to door asking for work. Doing the math, this shows that the typical earnings are around $30 per month.

Salaried permanent jobs are almost unheard of for slum residents. They are highly sought after, but finding these kind of jobs is virtually impossible.

Keep in mind that the average rent in Kibera is $10 to $15 per month, and school fees can be $5 or more per child per month. This leaves very little for food, clothing, or medical care. Tenderfeet fills the gap for these families, providing free education, a feeding program, and allowing mothers to search for work without leaving children at home unattended.

The issues dealt with in the documentary are handled in an honest and unflinching way. Please be warned that many of the topics are difficult to cope with and may be hard to watch.

IRIN - Slum Survivors

If there are any problems watching the dailymotion version embedded above, you can watch it in five parts through Youtube:

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
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Cheryl's Visit To Kibera, Part 3

2009-05-13T08:33:00.001-07:00

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Here is the third and final write-up from a kind and generous visitor, retired nurse Cheryl Fyfe. Cheryl tells us about her visit to the new land for the school. To see the first part of her account, please click here. Part two is here.

The land for the school was purchased through the wonderful support of the Collette Foundation. We are hoping to have a school building constructed and school bus purchased by the fall of this year.

Cheryl donated funds to purchase and transport trees and bushes for the land. Please see photo right. Here is what she wrote:

A wonderful ray of sunlight, a beautiful project going on, Tenderfeet. Right now the school is in the middle of Kibera under horrendous conditions but wonderful news for these beautiful children, a new school is in process.

Land has been bought and paid for on the outskirts of Nairobi. It is in a relatively rural area and has about 1 acre. The area is lovely, fresh air, birds singing flowers growing and this will all be novel for these slum children. There will be a school built and hopefully funds to buy a bus to bring these children out to the school. It will be a huge difference for these kids.

Edwin picked me up by taxi and we met a pickup truck, that was filled up with trees and hedge growth. We started out I swear no springs, as I felt every bump. The further out of the city I went my spirits rose and rose (I guess I am really a country girl at heart). But in each breath of fresh air I rejoiced for the children. There are open fields to look at, trees on one side of the property. It has a wire fence erected already for the safety of children. It is a place of beauty and peacefulness.

We unloaded the truck in an assembly line. It took us nearly 1/2 hr to unload everything. We started planting the hedge. An old man, Margaret's brother, was also helping. Old? It turns out he is 42!! They had a great time trying to guess my age and would not believe me when I told them I was nearly 62. sad comment was in Kenya if you live past age of 35 you are considered lucky!

We had great fun planting the trees I had bought. We had to wait for Margaret to see where she wanted the fruit trees planted. I was wearing my sandals and since it had rained last night the mud was tremendous - my sandals weighed at least 5 lbs. each they were that caked with mud.

Tenderfeet holds a very special place in my heart and yet I think Uganda holds my heart. I planted my own tree an Umbrella tree so I can sit under the shade when I come back and watch the children eat the fruit from the trees we planted, what a glorious thought.

After the tree planting morning we went back to Margaret's house, she shares with her children, her brother and his two children and has taken in orphans besides. It is a modest house but is filled with love and hope. A palace could not have been better. Margaret cooked a most marvelous Kenyan meal with Motoke, chicken spinach and so many other vegetables it was a feast fit for a king, and to think that those who have so little but share so much with such graciousness it was heart touching.

The best of all she had a little cat, missing my cats so much it was a pleasure petting a cat again. We had a wonderful afternoon with Edwin and his lovely wife Christine and Margaret and the children. Going back to guest house I felt a renewed sense of hope and will go back with renewed energy to raise funds for this wonderful project.
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Cheryl's Visit To Kibera, Part 2

2009-05-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

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Below is the second write-up from a wonderful recent visitor, retired nurse Cheryl Fyfe. To see the first part of her account, please click here.

Note that below Cheryl describes visiting some homes in Kibera. These included the homes of Wickliff Wesonga and Phelix Ondiek, pictured to the right (Wickliff is the older boy shown first).

To read more about these boys, please click here and here.

Here is what Cheryl wrote:

KIBERA--

Until you have seen, smelt and touched Kibera no one especially in the Western World can comprehend what real poverty is all about. And yet Kibera has a life all of its own, you can feel a sense of community even in deplorable conditions. It makes me wonder how we would react in the same setting. I don't know if I can describe this place, you turn down a little alley with tin shacks and you are walking on muddy mounds of garbage. Most people do not have toilets so they defacate in paper bags and throw them into streets where you walk. It rained just before our second trip so everything was slippery with mud and slime.

I was completely and absolutely physically emotionally spiritually exhausted. I feel like screaming "Why do people have to live like this? Shouldn't we care enough to help them? These are good people. No one should have to live in these conditions." I was walking through mounds and mounds of garbage, slipping and nearly stumbling and so ashamed of myself a western person looking at these conditions and feeling so overwhelmed, is there anything at all one person can do? How can we understand this place until we experience it? Inside the tin shacks the floors were made of dirt and because of the rain they were completely muddy one tiny little room and yet every place I visited was welcoming and I was made to feel at home.

These are courageous wonderful people whom I greatly admire. When I was feeling overwhelmed I thought perhaps if I can help one school and affect some children's lives maybe that will be enough. The visit to the school again was unbelievable and to see the shining bright faces of these children from the slums was inspiring. The children and teachers were off that day for holidays and yet most of them came in for the visit.

I had brought a toy for each child and pencil from Canada with our Maple leaf on it, the disbelief on receiving gifts truly touched my heart. For some of these children it may be the only toy they will ever see.

They sang to me songs of welcome, recited verses from the Bible, without forgetting anything. Remember these are children 3-5 years old, remarkable children. Their teachers truly amazing, to be admired working with these conditions and giving such love and hope to these children it makes one feel humbled. Tenderfeet School is an oasis of hope in a bleak world and my heart goes out to Margaret and the teachers.

Cheryl's Visit To Kibera, Part 1

2009-05-12T07:48:00.000-07:00

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I wanted to share some insights about Tenderfeet from a recent visitor.

The visitor is Cheryl Fyfe (pictured right with Mama Margaret), a retired nurse from Canada who has been traveling to Ugandan and Sudanese orphanages as a volunteer the past 8 years. Here is an article about Cheryl and the work she does. She also has written about her experiences here.

She has seen a great deal of poverty up close. Cheryl recently visited Tenderfeet and wrote three accounts about her experience. Below is the first one, reprinted with Cheryl's permission.

Kibera - What can I say. It is a different world. I don't think you could ever prepare yourself for it. But it is a place I knew I had to see, I really need to understand Africa the good and the bad. Kibera is one of the largest slums areas in Africa. It is a frightening area, an area simmering with hatred and despair, a place of dark ugliness an area.

Tensions are boiling just under the surface ready to explode at any time. But it is also a place that houses some of the most courageous people I have ever met and a beacon of light shines through the darkness of despair, a school called Tenderfeet. This is my goal to see this school.

Edwin had come to pick me up at Mayfield, the place I am staying we walked to catch a local bus, crowded mini van, as we left our area we passed a massive beautiful Baptist Church whose congregation numbers in the thousands. Getting aboard the bus is an experience, shoved like sardines in this van, when someone needs to get off the conductor who hangs out the door pounds on the van, why couldn't he just tell the driver to stop? Because the radio is blasting so loud no one could hear anything! The area was becoming poorer and poorer, shacks of corrugated steel,piles of garbage strewn about and soon we were in the middle of Kibera.

Edwin is a tall strong young African man who was my guide, he is associated with an organization in USA called Lahash, and he is a godsend I thanked my lucky stars I had him to help me. He instructed me to stay very close to him which believe me I was more than willing to do. My feminist attitudes flew out the window- and I was so thankful he was there with me. We went down this rutted little alley into a courtyard full of garbage. We picked our way through the garbage and came to another gate of tin and knocked. We entered another area with tin shacks and I could not believe it I was at the school called Tenderfeet. A school in the middle of the slums run by a remarkable woman called Margaret.

I have never admired someone so much as I do her. She leaves the security of her home and travels to Kibera to teach the children of the slums. No charge, the school is free to the children, children with HIV are welcomed and treated the same as other children. In Nairobi there are still very great tribal tensions, and since the elections they have spilled over into violence. Margaret was telling me that just a short time ago just in the street outside of the school 8 people were killed. In the past Margaret has had to move school three times, due to violence. Not too long ago school was attacked and ransacked everything destroyed, desks smashed papers destroyed for what? Because she is from a different tribe.

Another time a gang of thugs brought kerosene ready to burn the school down she was inside, not knowing if she was about to be burned alive. She prayed and one of the thugs realized she had taught him as a child and she and school were spared. This remarkable woman was still there the next day to help with the children. Now this is courage! As she was telling me her story we could hear a lot of screaming and shouting, the noise was getting closer and closer, Edwin told me to stay exactly where I was, I certainly did as I was told. Edwin came back and said there was demonstrations in the street and it would not be safe on the streets. We sat huddled in the school and we were speaking in whispers not to advertise the fact there was a white person among them. We smelt smoke and watched as a cloud of black smoke very close by billowed up into the air. They were burning tires. After an eternity it seemed the commotion drifted away then frighteningly they would be back and it seemed they were right outside the school. After about an hour or so the rabble drifted away and Edwin went outside again to see if it was safe to walk.

We would not be visiting any other place today, as Edwin said it was too volatile. We started walking rather quickly trying to make our way to a main street where we would catch transportation. We walked past railroad tracks that had been destroyed by the crowds, it was an area strewn with garbage. We walked past a group of 5 young guys, who started shouting Edwin told me to walk ahead of him and to stay close, it was rather nerve wracking- Luckily they did not follow us for long. We then went through a huge market bustling with life, the people still looked sullen and I moved along as quickly as I could. The noise of the rioting crowds had quieted down. We finally reached the area to catch the van I breathed a sigh of relief.

I was sitting in the middle of three seats with Edwin beside me and another young man on the other side. The young man began to crowd me a bit, then all of a sudden Edwin leaned over me yelled at the guy and grabbed his arm and started wrestling with him I was confused. What on earth was Edwin doing he grabbed the guys coat and searched the pockets, by this time the guy was screaming at Edwin and fighting back- he escaped into the streets and Edwin grabbed my purse and showed me how the guy was unzippering my purse, using his coat as a shield. Even Edwin was a bit shaken he kept saying "That was close".

This is Nairobi -- I am sure some are saying are you crazy to be doing this? My answer I may be but it is something I have to do for I have met remarkable courageous people working in desperate conditions and remember this is their everyday life. I need to understand their life. I will go back Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday if conditions settle down a bit. Now I have a greater understanding of the area and certainly understand the need for help needed for this school.

Happy Birthday, Mama Margaret!

2009-04-30T03:59:00.000-07:00

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Mama Margaret turns 45 today. It's very rare to celebrate birthdays in Kenya, and Margaret has never had a birthday party in her life. Today there will be a little get-together to mark the occasion.

She is pictured to the right with Boaz before his surgery.

One of the Tenderfeet donors gave a present to Margaret in the form of funds to go to the dentist and get her bad cavity filled!

Here is a small timeline of Margaret's life, challenges, and accomplishments. Some of the dates are approximate, I will try to verify them and correct if necessary.

1964: Margaret is born in a small town in the Central Province
1982: graduates from High School and moves to Nairobi
1986: marries Daniel Nyabuto, first child Sandra is born
1980's: gets training in electrical repair and certification for paralegal and child advocacy
1989: moves to Kibera
1991: starts teaching at a school in Kibera
1990's: gets training and certification in teaching
2000: opens Tenderfeet in a church in Kibera
2005: main donor (brother in law) for school is killed in auto accident in November
2005: first visit from Lahash in December
2006: school kicked out by unscrupulous landlords twice (May and Dec)
2006: Shadrack starts attending Tenderfeet and shows serious brain problems
2007: school kicked out again in March, current Kibera facility is constructed from iron sheet and plywood in April
2007: Shadrack has brain surgery in March
2007: Margaret's father is killed by thugs in December
2007: national elections on December 27
2008: post-election riots begin in January, lasting weeks. Margaret life is threatened and relocates to Riruta, school almost burned down 3 times
2008: Boaz has eye surgery in December
2009: land for school is purchased in April
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Updates from Edwin

2009-04-28T11:29:00.000-07:00

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Edwin has two great updates on the Lahash blog. The first is an update on Kibera and a wonderful visitor from Canada named Cheryl. Read it here.

The second update is about planting trees and shrubs on the new land, thanks to Cheryl. Please check it out here.

In other news, Wickliff will have the growth on his tongue surgically removed on Thursday. Please pray for his quick recovery.

Also, I usually ask for prayers for the Tenderfeet kids, but I would also ask for prayers for our sponsors and donors. Many of them have been contacting me lately with news of tough setbacks due to the economic downturn. Most are able to continue their sponsorship, but it is a real challenge for them.

Without our donors as a key part of the Tenderfeet team, there would be no Tenderfeet. Let's hope things turn around quickly for these kindhearted and generous angels of mercy. And of course, we are always in need of additional sponsors to keep the school going strong!

Creative Fundraising

2009-04-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

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Craig Garratt is a great friend of Tenderfeet from Australia who is always looking for ways to help the school. He visited Tenderfeet back in October of last year and has been working hard to raise funds and awareness.

For instance, Craig's graphic design company Gumption features news and information about Tenderfeet on the website and in company emails. He also is working with a local High School in the area to educate young people about the struggles of children living in poverty.

But perhaps his most innovative idea to date is to use sand sculptures to help Tenderfeet. It turns out Craig and friends are terrific sand sculptors and at a recent event his team was paid to create one of their masterpieces. They decided to donate the proceeds to Tenderfeet as well as tell the story of Tenderfeet to folks who came by to enjoy the sculpture. Here is a page about their experience.

Craig shows that fundraising doesn't have to be a horrible experience, you can have fun and make a difference at the same time. Would you like to do a creative fundraiser? Please let me know by emailing me at dmitchell@lahash.net and I would be glad to provide ideas, photos, video or any other materials that might help.

Craig writes about the day:

"We built a Marsupial Lion – an animal that used to live around our way until about 15,000 years ago. We have built it pretty close to life size too! The ‘rules’ of the art form are that you can only use the sand where you are, and water at hand (ie the ocean or river front you are on).

The whole team at work got involved and another local graphic designer and good friend joined us. We had six people building and pounding the pile of sand, and Stuart, Warren and myself carved it. Kate ran around spraying it with water all day so it didn’t dry out as we carved and Ally, Stuarts wife, went into a wonderful spiel about Tenderfeet to anybody that stopped and had a look.

Her throat was dry at the end as at one point we had nearly 30 people crowded around watching. During the day hundreds saw it under construction. Kids especially loved it, and many got right into it, giving us some serious advice on how to do it properly so it wouldn’t collapse (there are many budding engineers under 10 around here!!). We started at 6 am and finished up around 1:30 pm – everyone had a blast doing it."

Wickliff Goes to the Doctor

2009-04-09T07:30:00.000-07:00

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Wickliff Wesonga is a 12 year old orphan who attended Tenderfeet when he was younger. Mama Margaret was concerned about a strange growth on his tongue, which started small and kept getting bigger and bigger.

Using some special donations, he was first taken to Kenyatta National Hospital on March 11th. Children are usually taken to local clinics for most medical concerns, but in this case he was taken to the National Hospital because of the unusual problem.

Let me describe in a bit of detail how things went to give you some idea of the challenges of helping needy children with medical issues.

Once he checked in with the first doctor, the doctor told Margaret she would have to retrieve his complete medical records from the clinic he would normally attend. This was required because Wickliff is HIV positive and had Tuberculosis when he was younger. So a trip was made to the other clinic, the records were fetched, Wickliff was taken back to the hospital again (see photo). At that point, they decided to schedule a biopsy.

The biopsy took place last week and we should get the results next week. We are praying that it is something easily treatable.

Altogether, this will have taken at least four trips (with public transportation) to the doctor and one to the clinic, each with long waits involved, plus about $100 in funds. As you can see, it takes a lot of time, energy and resources to help orphans like Wickliff. Stay tuned for updates on the biopsy results.

I visited Wickliff and his home in January. Wickliff lives with an aunt who is taking care of a large extended family. The living conditions, especially when it rains, are horrible. Wickliff is a bright and responsible young man who needs help to make sure he gets nutritious food (important for children like Wickliff who are HIV positive), and improved bedding, clothes, and help with school fees. If you would like to sponsor Wickliff, please contact me at dmitchell@lahash.net

Below is a video of Wickliff (wearing a pink shirt) leading Mama Margaret to his home in Kibera. Notice Margaret bringing up the need that Wickliff has for a sponsor.

During our visit to Wickliff's home, the coach of the soccer club Wickliff belongs to came by with a soccer ball. The coach was telling me what a good player Wickliff is and wanted us to see how well Wickliff could handle the ball. I took a video clip of Wickliff juggling the ball.

Mercy Update

2009-03-22T05:51:00.000-07:00

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Mercy Wanjiru is a 15 year old girl who grew up in Kibera. Please see photo to the right. Her family had to flee for their lives during the riots and they lost everything. Now they live in Riruta.

We are really in need of a sponsor for Mercy. If you want to help this hard-working and responsible young woman to have a chance at a brighter future, please contact me at dmitchell@lahash.net

Mercy's father has serious health problems, and right now is almost paralyzed from a stroke. He's only recently regained the ability to speak. Her mother is only able to work odd jobs for very little money.

Mercy's parents are of the Gorino faith, a Christian denomination that believes men and women should keep their heads covered and does not sanction family planning. There are 8 children in the family. Mercy has 3 older sisters, none of whom has gotten past 8th grade.

When I visited Mercy in January, school had not yet started. She was supposed to begin the 8th grade at a public school in Riruta. The public school is supposedly free, but in fact charges many backdoor and hidden fees. We knew in January her family had not paid these fees, but did not expect the school to refuse to allow Mercy to rejoin when school began.

When I checked back with Mama Margaret in February, she told me that Mercy was not allowed to go back to school until she paid all the fees (less than $50, but way more than her family could afford). She also told me that Mercy's family was on the verge of being kicked out of their tiny home in the slums because they were behind on their rent (about $25 per month). Keep in mind there are 5 children (the 3 oldest have moved away) and 2 adults living in a tiny residence of iron sheet, that becomes hot as an oven during the day and can get quite cold at night. Here's a video of the approach to Mercy's home (Mercy is walking on the right):

Without intervention, Mercy's education was over and done with, completing only up to the seventh grade level. Even if she did return, the education she would receive was very low quality, especially a girl like Mercy who was way behind to begin with.

Why was she behind? Because she didn't receive the preparation a school like Tenderfeet provides. When she began public schools in Kibera in first grade, she could barely understand what the teacher was telling her (and the other 90 students in the class).

Mercy was expected to know basic English, the alphabet, basic arithmetic, and have a foundation of simple reading and writing. She had none of that because her family was too poor to send her to pre-primary. In primary school, there was no individual attention, and so she was confused from day one.

She never caught up and was forced to miss school for long periods of time because her family got behind on the fees. Here is Margaret at Mercy's home explaining "free" education in Kenya.

If Mercy missed the introduction of a topic, it was never reviewed or explained to her. So she attended school for 7 years like that, never comfortable with what she was learning because she had so many gaps. If she had attended Tenderfeet, which didn't yet exist when she was young, she would have been ready and could have even excelled.

So when it looked like Mercy's education was at an end in February, it was just another sad chapter in a tragic and pathetic experience. We decided to intervene and try to turn things around for this mature young person. She was evaluated by Bensesa primary school, a school that Tenderfeet partners with for children that have moved to the next level beyond Tenderfeet. The results confirmed our fears -- she was assessed to be at a 4th grade level.

We have decided to enroll her at Bensesa at the 8th grade level, but supplement her learning with large amounts of personal tutoring. Because she has a great attitude and work ethic, we expect her to make a lot of progress. Already, Mama Margaret is encouraged to see Mercy smiling and is so happy to have this opportunity. Mercy has explained the difference between the public school and Bensesa, and it is like night and day.

Margaret's niece Faith (an orphan who began living with Margaret last year) was very much like Mercy and received the same kind of catch-up tutoring. Faith was able to progress enough that she qualified for high school, and that is what we are hoping will happen for Mercy as well.

If you would like to partner with us to help Mercy, please become a sponsor and change this girl's future forever in a very positive way. We need about $40 per month -- which is very reasonable in Kenya considering the tutoring and education she is getting -- to pay for all of her educational expenses. If we could find two sponsors willing to donate $20 per month each, that would be great, too!

The email address again is dmitchell@lahash.net
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Special Children in Kenya

2009-03-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

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Shadrack is a sweet young orphan boy who had a life-threatening brain abscess. Because of friends who joined together to raise the funds, he was able to have brain surgery in 2007.
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He has made great progress from the time before he had the surgery. But he has been diagnosed with mild retardation as a result of the effects of the abscess. His biggest challenge is short-term memory.

Shadrack is now at a special school for mentally challenged children in north Nairobi called Treeside. We are blessed to have a terrific sponsor for Shadrack -- a Houston youth group called Corby's Castle.

I was able to visit Treeside in January and saw what a wonderful environment it is for special kids. Mama Margaret had been telling me for a long time what a great job they were doing for Shadrack and how it is an excellent environment for kids like Shadrack. When I saw for myself, it was clear why she was so enthusiastic about it.

The teachers at Treeside know how to deal with children who are eager to learn but need extra patience and love. Whereas a regular school would scold Shadrack for forgetting, Treeside understands his situation and can work to improve his retention.

Here is a picture of Shadrack with some of his school friends.

Treeside is a government school, which means it gets funding from the Kenyan government. Unfortunately, the amount per student is woefully inadequate. To make up the difference, Treeside has to charge school fees to feed, educate, and board the students -- adding up to several hundred dollars per year. As you can imagine, these expenses are too costly for most poor families. Yet the school does its best to make sure as many children can attend as possible, and tries to work with families that struggle to pay.

The director of the school is also named Margaret. She is standing at left with some of the students

Yesterday, I spoke with Jennifer Cheserek, who is a blind woman that receives assistance through our sponsorship program. Jennifer has a 26 year old daughter named Sarah that is mentally retarded and has been since birth.

Jennifer was telling me the struggles her family went through trying to find a good place like Treeside for Sarah. Once, long ago when Sarah was young, the family managed to borrow and save 10,000 shillings so that Sarah could go to a special school in Eldoret. But the school was not patient like Treeside, and after about a month, said that Sarah could not continue because she needed too much extra attention. Imagine, a brand new student and they gave up on her just like that!

Sadly, like the vast majority of children with special needs in Kenya, Sarah never attended another school and missed out on learning the life skills that only can be taught by an educator with the specialized training needed.

That is why we are so thankful for Treeside, and how they are helping children become more independent and grow up to have a fulfilling adulthood as well as contribute to society. If you are interested in learning more about Treeside, please email me at dmitchell@lahash.net.

Here's Mama Margaret in one of the dormatories with a Treeside student.

Update on Mungiki Protests

2009-03-09T09:43:00.000-07:00

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A quick update on the Mungiki problem. Margaret said that the Mungiki protests have evolved into protests from college students who are infuriated over the police killings of innocent fellow students. It seems, though, that the situation has stayed under control for the most part, thank goodness, and Nairobi is peacefull overall. Here is a YouTube clip on the matter.

Mungiki and Violence in Kenya

2009-03-06T20:43:00.000-08:00

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What is happening at Tenderfeet this week? As I often say, life in Kenya is very hard.

In this case, the school is being affected by events in Kenya related to a radical group called the Mungiki.

The Mungiki is an organization that strikes fear into the hearts of most Kenyan citizens. This secretive group resembles the mafia in some ways, in other ways it is like a cult. They are said to achieve their goals through violence, extortion, and death threats.

The Mungiki control all the matatus (public transportation vans) in Nairobi through intimidation. All drivers must pay protection money.

Mungiki members and supporters argue that they are misunderstood and that the government and police vilify them for political purposes.

The government is ultimately to blame for organizations like Mungiki being so strong. Because of corruption and lack of basic services, groups like the Mungiki step in to fill the void. For instance, in some of the worst slums like Mathare, there is no police presence to provide security.

When the Mungiki show that they can provide a form of security and social services (which they do), even with all their drawbacks, they gain credibility and power. This is similar to how Hamas gained power in Palestine and the Sadrists gained power in Iraq.

The best way for the Kenyan government to reduce the influence of the Mungiki would be to do a better job of bringing real security and social services to the slums.

The Mungiki is a Kikuyu group. There is no Mungiki presence in Kibera, because Kibera is dominated by the Luo and Luhya tribes, which are hostile to the Kikuyu tribe.

Recently, the police have been cracking down on the Mungiki. Unfortunately, the police operate in such a heavy-handed way, they end up causing a backlash. The brutal way the police violently hunt down the Mungiki cause even those who don't like the Mungiki to resent the police.

As a result, protests were organized throughout the city of Nairobi (see photo) and surrounding areas this past Thursday. Public transportation was paralyzed and roadblocks were set up throughout the city. Areas like Riruta (where Mama Margaret lives and Tenderfeet has a school location) were very much affected.

In fact, Margaret told me the whole area is closed down. Shopkeepers were too scared to open their businesses, and nobody could get anything done. Many of the schoolchildren didn't come to school, and life overall came to a grinding halt.

Meanwhile, it appears that some police gunned down some human-rights workers who were involved in the protests, only inflaming the situation more.

Please pray that the situation won't get out of hand like it did last year with the post-election riots. Kenyans have a saying, "when elephants fight, it is the grass that is trampled." In other words, when these political forces clash, it is the poor, the innocent, and especially the children who are the real victims.

We hope and pray that this episode will be resolved quickly and peacefully.

A Visit from Nish

2009-02-25T06:45:00.000-08:00

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Nish Shah grew up in Kenya but now lives in London. He heard about Tenderfeet and wanted to come by the school during his visit to Kenya this February. Please see photo right with Nish standing next to Mama Margaret and Nish's brother kneeling with the kids.

Please note: I realized after I wrote this post, that Edwin also wrote a post on Nish's visit as well. You can find it here.

One of the big needs the kids have is school shoes. All kids are supposed to (according to the Ministry of Education) wear black leather shoes to school. Of course, this is is an absurd, ridiculous, and devastatingly harmful requirement on the part of the government, but that's the way things are in Kenya and it's a serious matter.

Do black leather shoes help children learn better than sandals or bare feet? Isn't that a silly question? In fact, many children wear school shoes that they have outgrown or don't fit so that they won't be kicked out of school. These kids with ill-fitting shoes are actually in pain during school, which is obviously detrimental to learning.

You can see that the government really is not looking out for the education of poor children at all and why Tenderfeet is important in filling the gap. The school shoes are not a gentle request by the Ministry of Education, but in fact the schools are expected to be very strict on the matter and most schools are strict or at least try to be. Tenderfeet is not strict about it, but gets in trouble when the Education representatives come by to check up on the school.

These school shoes usually cost around $10 for used ones (click here for a photo of Margaret buying some used shoes) and as much as $25 for new shoes. Most Tenderfeet children come from families that can't afford this -- remember many of these families make $30-$50 per month.

Before he visited Tenderfeet, Nish emailed me and said he wanted to help with some aspect of the uniforms; he said he might be able to get a good deal. With our Christmas Uniform Fund, we had started the purchase pants and sweaters for the kids (see photo he re).

So when Nish arrived at Tenderfeet, he decided he wanted to help get new school shoes for all the Tenderfeet kids because that was the biggest need in terms of the school uniform.

Amazingly, he was able to purchase new school shoes for all 65 Tenderfeet children. Please see photos of Teacher Karen and Mama Margaret putting these shoes on the kids. You can't imagine what a relief it is and how proud the kids will be of these shoes.

Think back to one of your proudest days, when you got a new bike or you won a medal in a sports competition. Remember how you walked around feeling like you were on top of the world. That's how these children will feel in their new shoes. It's a big deal for them.

Nish also brought two big boxes of exercise books (see photo here of an exercise book), which puts the school in great shape with it's school supplies.

We are blessed to have friends and visitors like Nish who sacrifice their time and money to help the needy kids of Tenderfeet.

In other news, we are working to get Mercy Wanjiru into the Bensesa Primary s chool. It turns out she was unable to return to the public school she had been attending because she was so far behind in school fees. The school told her don't come back until you can pay, and there was no way her family could pay. So without intervention, her education would come to a dead stop after her seventh grade year.

On top of that, her father had a stroke and the family was served an eviction notice because they were far behind on their rent. Please understand the level of crisis in this family, it's unbelievable.

I'll write more about it soon, but when I say life in Kenya is very hard, think of Mercy's situation as a prime example.

Kenya Trip Slideshow, Part 3

2009-02-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

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Kenya Trip Slideshow, Part 2

2009-02-11T06:49:00.000-08:00

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Kibera Tenderfeet Students 2009

2009-02-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

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Here are the Tenderfeet students at the Kibera School. Note that the class levels go in the order: Introductory (Intro), Middle, Pre-Unit, Standard 1 (Std 1), Standard 2 (Std 2). Pre-Unit is roughly equivalent to Kindergarten in the United States.

You may notice that Boaz's right eye is somewhat out of alignment with his left eye. Sometimes it is like this, sometimes it is normal looking. The surgery this past December was on the left eye, and the doctor says that the right eye can be adjusted slightly in the coming year. We should have enough balance remaining in the Boaz medical fund to cover this follow-up surgery.

Kenya Trip Slideshow, Part 1

2009-02-04T20:07:00.000-08:00

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Here's the first slideshow from the trip.

Back in Houston

2009-02-04T01:54:00.000-08:00

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Edwin wrote a nice article on the Lahash blog, please read it here.

I returned to Houston on Monday and have been catching up on personal and professional things the last few days as well as dealing with a little jet lag.

Thank you so much for your prayers and concern during the trip. I was in great hands with all the friends in Kenya showing wonderful hospitality.

I'll be working this week on putting together some photos and video of the visit and will post them here. I also have some items to send to sponsors, but it will take me a few weeks to finish all the mailing. I'll do my best to get everything done as soon as possible!

Week One in Kenya Summary

2009-01-28T02:58:00.000-08:00

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This is the first chance I've had to update the blog -- I haven't had internet access since last Tuesday.

Edwin Angote wrote a post last week about my visit, please find it here.

Last Wednesday, I had intended to go to the clinic with Boaz to do a checkup on his eyes. Unfortunately, in truly Kenyan fashion, we were unable to make it because of the dozens of inconveniences and delays that pile up in a typical Kenyan's day.

On Thursday, we met with some Kibera children and visited the site of the land that is currently being purchased for the new school. The Collette Foundation has been our partner on this task and is completely funding the land purchase. They have been incredibly patient and steadfast through the many ups and downs of the past few years.

On Friday, Mama Margaret and I got up at 4:00 and caught a taxi to Kenyatta airport to fly to Eldoret. It was Margaret's first time to fly and she was a little nervous initially. We landed in Kisumu briefly before touching down in Eldoret. Now Margaret gives flying the thumbs up!

We stayed at Jennifer's place. Jennifer is a blind woman who is sponsored by a generous donor that enables Jennifer to have a suitable place to live. It's amazing what Jennifer can do despite her physical challenges. She cooks and cleans her place better than most sighted people. She's an inspiration to me. Another donor donated some great Braille materials (see picture) and the entire Bible on CD, together with a CD player!

The slums of Munyaka were the location of some of the worst post-election violence, and when we visited, we could still sense the after-effects of those horrible times. We saw the children of our sponsorship program there, including Monicah, Nancy, Loice, and Victor. We also met with Jane Waithaka who directs Eldo-Excel, the school the children now attend. Finally, we went to Lewa Children's center to visit three girls who are sponsored there. It's a wonderful place for abandoned and neglected children, and the three girls were doing great in the loving environment provided by Mama Phyllis.

On Sunday night and Monday morning we visited Lucy in Nyahururu and were delighted to see her big smile and bubbling personality. We visited her school which is excellent and she can now attend thanks to her sponsor (see photo in her class).

I also was able to see the progress in her wound healing. In 2007 she almost died from a huge gaping sore on the back of her leg, almost as deep as the bone. She had a skin graft and a few months ago some of the "permanent" stitches were removed (there were also some dissolvable ones). The removal caused the wound to reopen, but it's now about the size of a nickel. They can't restitch it, but it is slowly healing and the family puts honey on it daily so bacteria will eat the honey and not eat the flesh. It's been an incredibly rough road for Lucy but she always keeps smiling!

On Tuesday, we visited Shadrack at the Treeside School, a boarding school that serves children with special challenges like those of Shadrack. They told us that Shadrack is well-loved by teachers and classmates and has made a lot of progress. They are trying to help him develop his short-term memory, which has been one of the things he sometimes has a hard time with.

Then we picked up Kitonga and his three children -- Shiro, Samwel, and Maggie -- who rode the bus from Eldoret. These children will now be living with Margaret and going to school at Tenderfeet (for Maggie) and a nearby school that is for older children (the same one where Alice, Faith, and Stephen go). Kitonga wants the best for his children, and has really struggled to take care of them. We believe the new environment gives us the best chance for their future. The kids are wonderful, and it is clear that Kitonga has given them so much love, even though he has had such difficulties.

First Few Days In Kenya

2009-01-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

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I've arrived safely and everything is going smoothly. I'm enjoying the warm Kenyan hospitality and staying with Mama Margaret's wonderful family.

Yesterday, we visited the Riruta school location and got to see some familiar faces like Cathy Khulman, Everlyne Nyambura, and Nigel Vetto (pictured right).

We also escorted some of the older children who now are ready for the next level (3rd and 4th grade) to their new school, called Bensese Primary. These children are Faith Wambui, Alice Wanjiru, and Stephen Gichuki (pictured below). All three of these children fled Kibera during the post-election riots. They are adapting to their new environment and we are looking forward to seeing them grow at the next level of their educations.

Then Margaret and I sat down for a few hours and discussed all of the goals and tasks we need to accomplish during our visit. It's going to be a challenge, but we will do our best.

We also went downtown to get some supplies, and one thing I noticed is that it's about 50% farther to get to downtown from Riruta than from Kibera. While downtown, Margaret showed me at the market how much food prices have increased in the past year or two. It's clearly a struggle for families earning a dollar a day to afford staples like rice and beans.

Today (Tuesday), we visited the Kibera school and met some families. I got to see Edwin and his wife Christine, Teacher Karen, and saw familiar faces like Boaz and Winslet for the first time since my arrival.

We spent the afternoon visiting the guardians of Phelix, Wickliff, and Sharon Kwamboka. Each had their own story to tell, and each was tragic in its own way. Wickliff and Sharon are orphans, and Phelix's mother is a widow. Each of these families struggles to survive.

For instance, Sharon's guardians are her grandparents. Her grandfather is bedridden, and her grandmother washes clothes when she can find the work. She maybe can earn 500 shillings per week, about $8 US dollars. They have received assistance from the Tenderfeet orphans fund and Sharon's new sponsor, but even now they are 2 years behind on their rent and get threats from the landlord that they will be kicked out (the rent is about $15 per month). There are four children and two adults sleeping in a 10x10 ft room. Because of Tenderfeet and the child sponsorship program, there is hope for the future for Sharon.

Tomorrow, I am going with Boaz to his eye doctor appointment and running some other errands.

Going to Kenya

2009-01-16T22:34:00.000-08:00

I'm leaving for Kenya today, to visit for two weeks. This is a self-funded trip, just as the last one was. No donations were used or will ever be used for any part of my expenses during the visit.

There are many reasons for going, as you can imagine. Here are a few...

oversight and accountability: making sure funds are used properly and records are in order
learning: to better serve the children, it is important to see their situations first-hand
communication: 8,000 miles is a long way, even with internet and telephone; by talking face to face, we can make sure we are on the same page on all the aspects the project
mutual discipleship: Lahash has a beautiful concept of partnerships based on two-way discipleship, which can take the form of encouragement, prayer, service, sharing ideas, and growing together in faith and love through Jesus Christ

Last time I went, I learned a lot, but feel that this time I need to dig much deeper. I will be staying at Mama Margaret's home, so that will help a lot. Last time, I was at a guest house (like a small hotel), and so had to leave the project site in the evenings. Now I will have the chance to talk so much more and discuss many important issues in greater detail.

Thank you to friends and family who have wished me well on this trip, it means a lot to me. I hope to take advantage of the opportunity to the best of my abilities. I'm also hoping to be able to update this blog from time to time if I can get access to the internet once in a while.

I would appreciate your prayers for my wife and two boys while I'm gone.

By the way, here's a slideshow of my last vist in 2007

Kibera: One Year After the Riots

2009-01-12T08:20:00.001-08:00

An interesting article was published today about the rebuilding of Kibera one year after the riots following the Kenyan elections in December 2007. You can read the article here.

According to Margaret, tensions in Kibera still remain. She does not feel safe visiting certain parts of the slum because ethnic hostility is present and noticeable in these areas.

Nevertheless, it's remarkable that the situation didn't spiral out of control more than it did. Yes, it was terrible, but there was a fear one year ago that there was no end in sight. Fortunately, as the article points out, as soon as the two political leaders struck a power-sharing deal, peace returned to Kenya.

One Dollar A Day

2009-01-08T07:34:00.000-08:00

Edwin Angote, the Lahash representative for East Africa, has a good post on the Lahash blog about the opening of Tenderfeet. Please read it here.

I came across a superb documentary from the BBC on what it means to live on a dollar a day in Kenya. The web page for the documentary is here, and the MP3 file is here. A related article is here. The documentary was made in 2005 -- but is still very relevant and timely.

Although the documentary focuses on a rural area in western Kenya, rather than the urban life in Nairobi where Tenderfeet kids live (see photo), it still gives tremendous insight into the real people facing extreme poverty.

As you listen, please notice how these victims of poverty are articulate, hard-working, and extremely concerned about the wellbeing of their families. This has also been my experience.

Regarding developmental programs and foreign aid, overall these things are a positive for people. Hospitals, schools, and public transportation are available that would not be without the investment of foreign aid. And poor people do sometimes go to the doctor, have kids that get educated, and are able to get back and forth to work.

However, all these things cost money, and often are such a financial burden that it can be an incredible struggle to eat three meals a day with the money left over.

In other words, foreign aid can and does improve life for the country as a whole, but the individual poor families often suffer as they fall in between the cracks.

What level of responsibility do these families have for the circumstances they find themselves in?

For instance, do I wish parents would choose to have fewer children so that they could better support the ones they have? Absolutely. Do I think every parent or guardian of a Tenderfeet child always makes good decisions for the long term? Of course not (although I would also ask -- what parent anywhere doesn't sometimes make bad decisions?).

About the role of adults in making decisions, two points can be made. First, the children are innocent of the decisions made by their parents. Second, the best way to ensure the children will make better decisions when they grow up is to educate them.

Finally, based on what I've seen and learned, I believe that for most people living in extreme poverty (at least in Kenya), no matter how hard they work or how clever they are, they are still essentially trapped. The opportunity to achieve one's dreams we see in the United States and other industrialized nations is just not there. The barriers are way too high for the vast majority.

But we still keep working to change all that at Tenderfeet, and education is a great place to focus in attacking the problem.

Lucy in 2009

2009-01-06T20:54:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite young people in Kenya is 12 year old Lucy Muchoki (pictured here during my visit in 2007). Lucy is not a student of Tenderfeet, and instead we came to know her through the project Lahash had in Eldoret, Kenya.

Lucy has had a difficult life, a lot of it due to being paralyzed from the waist down. She has missed a lot of school because of her health and we were afraid she was going to die a few years ago, when she was in the hospital for over a month. Read more here. Her family was also in terrible danger during the riots but was fortunate to be unharmed and have since relocated to Nyahururu.

Despite all the challenges she's faced, she is a fun-loving, sweet, and happy child. Thanks to some kind friends that have helped with the school fees, Lucy has been able to attend a very good school this past year in Nyahururu. Some of these same friends have sponsored her wheelchair and have been there finacially to help her to get critical medical care.

I spoke with Lucy today on the phone and she is excited and ready for the new school year to start on Thursday. She tells me her favorite subject is math and her least favorite subject is Swahili. Lucy got to spend Christmas with relatives in Nairobi and was thankful for that.

She is making good progress in school and works hard to improve. It's been tough because of all the school she missed in the past, but her wonderful spirit keeps her always moving forward.

I'm looking forward to visiting Lucy and so many of the other great kids in our program. I'll be visiting in a few weeks and will certainly be posting new photos when I get back.

Happy New Year from Tenderfeet

2009-01-03T05:33:00.000-08:00

The new school year begins in a few weeks and it is an incredibly hectic time for families across Kenya. School supplies and uniforms are often purchased now, and children are moving to the next level of their education. Some are leaving pre-primary going to primary and some are going to secondary.

We are so grateful to our donors who are assisting many needy children with school supplies and uniforms.

Speaking of uniforms, for many of us not growing up in the Kenyan system, the national school uniform requirement (tracing back to the British Colonial days) seems like a harsh and unnecessary burden to families. Every school is expected to require their students, no matter how poor, to buy a matching uniform with good quality black shoes (leather if possible). See picture to the right of two Tenderfeet girls in their uniforms (Happy and Yvonne).

On a personal note, I would be thrilled if kids weren't required to wear uniforms. School uniforms have been a neverending source of frustration from day one. Compared to sandals and second-hand clothes, which can be bought very cheaply in Kenya, a uniform is a major expense to poor famlies. For families with more than one child, the cost of uniforms can be as much as a month's wages!

But I have come to understand that the uniform is a deeply ingrained part of Kenyan culture that we have to live with. Although most schools for poor children, such as Tenderfeet, tend to look the other way when it comes to uniforms, such a situation is frowned upon. More strict schools -- such as those attended by former Tenderfeet kids still receiving assistance -- will send a child home if not wearing a uniform.

I am also mindful that to Kenyan children, a uniform (in decent condition) is a source of pride, reflecting the great importance Kenyans place on education. Kenyans also value modesty and tend to dress much more formally than people in many other countries. Sadly, for most poor children that do have uniforms, their uniforms are so tattered and threadbare that it becomes instead a source of embarrasment. So I try to remember this situation when I think about school uniforms.

Those that gave to the Christmas fund for school kits are doing a great service to deserving children. It's not too late to help out with uniforms, you can donate here. Be sure to specify Tenderfeet and uniforms on the donation screen.

Shadrack recently had a nasty eye infection, but thanks to the Tenderfeet Emergency fund, we were able to get medication and treatment for it.

He has now recovered completely and will be going back to the Treeside school, thanks to his sponsor, Corby's Castle.

By the way, Shadrack is wearing the T-shirt Brittany sent him last year. Brittany has been a special friend to Tenderfeet for a long time, and still helps through the Ten for Tenderfeet program.

In other news, we are glad to have new sponsor for one of Tenderfeet's neediest children, Sharon Kwamboka. Our new sponsor is named Kevin and he lives in Toronto, Canada.

Sharon is a six-year old orphan girl who lives with her grandparents. Her grandfather is in poor health and often bedridden. The photo to the right is of Sharon and her grandfather picking up some food supplies (rice and beans) made possible through the Tenderfeet Orphans Fund. Her grandmother works whenever she can find a small job, usually washing clothes.

Sharon has been attending Tenderfeet in Kibera since the beginning of 2006. Like many Tenderfeet children, she is a victim of AIDS, which claimed the life of her mother when Sharon was very small. Fortunately, Sharon tested negative when she took the HIV test.

Thanks to the child sponsorship program, Sharon will receive assistance with food, shelter, and educational needs. The Tenderfeet sponsorship team works with each family to ensure the child is helped in the most effective way possible.

We are still looking for sponsors for some of the other especially needy children of Tenderfeet. Please visit this page for more information.

Boaz Goes Home

2008-12-04T07:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Boaz was released from the hospital following his successful eye muscle surgery. Below is a picture of him on the taxi ride home. He thinks it's wonderful this amazing change has taken place.

Notice in the picture the spots of lights appear on the same location of each cornea (pediatricians often do the "corneal light reflex test" during well-child checkups). That's a good sign the eyes are properly aligned.

There's still quite a bit of redness from the surgery, but the doctor says it will go away in a few days.

A study of people with strabismus (permanently-crossed eyes) found that 85% report that it causes problems with their work, school and sports. 70% said it had a negative effect on their self-image. So this surgery will be a blessing to Boaz the rest of his life.

For comparison, here's the first picture I saw of Boaz, taken by the Lahash team during their January 2007 visit.

Thanks again to all of the donors and friends for making this possible. It was a team effort. What a great Christmas present and way to share God's love.

Boaz has the Surgery

2008-12-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

Good news! Boaz had his eye surgery today and according to early reports from the nurse, everything is going well so far. Boaz left his room at 3:00 PM Nairobi time, and was returned at 5:00 PM. He was bandaged and sleeping when he came back. Mama Margaret took this picture after his return.

She wasn't able to talk to the doctor because he had moved on to work on the next patient, but the nurse said it was a success. Tomorrow, Margaret will get a full report and if everything goes well, Boaz should check out of the hospital on Wednesday. Thank you for your prayers and support.

Update on Boaz

2008-11-30T12:04:00.000-08:00

Boaz Osiebe is the 5 year old Tenderfeet student who has permanently crossed eyes (Strabismus).

Now an operation has been made possible through the fundraising efforts of Kathy Switzer in Canada as well as big help from Cornerstone UMC Vacation Bible School kids in Houston, Texas.

The eye muscle surgery was originally supposed to take place in August, but was delayed due to schedule conflicts on the part of the doctor.

At long last, Boaz was admitted to the Eye Unit of Kikuyu Hospital today. His operation is scheduled for tomorrow. As I'm sure you can understand, he's a little bit nervous and a little bit excited at the same time.

Please keep Boaz in your prayers.

Meet Two Kibera Boys

2008-11-09T07:19:00.000-08:00

I'd like to share the stories of two Tenderfeet kids, one a current student and the other a former student who has moved on to the next stage of his education.

Phelix Ondiek (see picture right) is a four year old boy that attends Tenderfeet in Kibera. His family fled and relocated to Riruta after the riots in January, but his mother could not make enough to support the family in the new location. After a few months, they returned to Kibera even though it is not as safe for the family. Phelix's father passed away in 2004 from HIV/AIDS. The mother is HIV positive. Phelix is frequently sick and possibly HIV positive as well, but has not yet been tested. The mother is the sole bread winner in the household from her vegetable vendor business in Kibera.

Phelix has two brothers and two sisters. He is known for cracking jokes and loves singing. He receives assistance through the sponsorship of the Brown Family and the Urban Outreach organization.

Wickliff Wesonga (photo left) was admitted in Tenderfeet in 2001. After completing several years of school at Tendefeet, he was ready for the next level, joining Ayany Primary. He is now twelve years old in class six.

Mama Margaret wishes she could continue the education of children like Wickliff because it's a struggle at Ayany. Classes are overcrowded and school fees are extremely difficult for his family to pay (although Ayany is officially "free", in fact there are many hidden fees). Unfortunately, Tenderfeet doesn't have the staff or facilities to educate older children like Wickliff.

Wickliff is an AIDS orphan, and was born HIV positive, but -- thank heaven -- is able to obtain life saving ARV drugs. He lives with his uncle who is also HIV positive, and has three brothers and two sisters. He loves playing soccer and reading storybooks. Wickliff depends on good samaritans to help with life expenses, and recently has received assistance from the Tenderfeet Orphans Fund.

These two boys have already faced more challenges than many of us see in a lifetime. Thankfully, they are now getting some help which gives them hope for the future.

Emergency and Orphans Funds

2008-09-30T11:09:00.000-07:00

Gillian Adhiambo is a young student at Tenderfeet in Kibera. In June, a container of boiling liquid was accidentally spilled on her leg. The burn was severe.

Thanks to the Tenderfeet emergency fund, Mama Margaret was able to get quality medical treatment for the leg. Dressings were applied and tended over a period of many weeks.

The burn has healed up now, though the scars remain. The emergency fund has come to the rescue of many Tenderfeet children. Donations to the Ten for Tenderfeet program allow the emergency fund to exist.

We've also recently set up an orphan's fund to help some of the school's neediest children. Orphans often live with relatives or good samaritans who have difficulty absorbing the extra expense that comes with the orphan child.

Three such children are Fredrick Muchangi (10 yrs), Yvonne Lituiza (5 yrs), and Dickson Mberia (4 yrs). These children were orphans who lived with a good samaritan unable to care for them anymore. They are currently staying with Mama Margaret.

Thanks to a kind sponsor, as well as the orphans fund, we can afford to come to the rescue of children like these and several others who attend school but need extra help outside of the school.

Especially now that food prices are higher than ever, the orphans fund can ensure that a sweet orphan girl like Esther Ngina (see picture) doesn't suffer because of going without meals.

Esther, who lives with an Aunt that struggles to eke out a living, sometimes came to school crying because she was so hungry. Now we are able to help her to get the food she needs. Cornerstone Methodist Church had a generous love offering in September to boost the orphans fund.

May Tenderfeet Updates

2008-05-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

We have been blessed to have the former Tenderfeet students sponsored in a school called Perijang. A Perijang teacher is using the old Tenderfeet building to continue the education of these vulnerable children (please see picture). Although the school fees at Perijang are only about $5 per month, it is still too much for these children's families, so scholarships are being covered through the generosity of Tenderfeet friends in California and Rhode Island.

Meanwhile, the children in Kibera who were sponsored previously are still being helped through the sponsorship program. For example, the families of Winslet Auma, Collins Onyango, and Brian Ochoki are receiving assistance in the form of food, rent, and clothing. We still have many especially needy children in need of a sponsor. To find out more, please click here.

An important development in one child's life involves the treatment of an eye problem that Boaz Osiebe has faced for a long time. Last month, Mama Margaret took Boaz to the eye clinic where the doctor identified two different problems.

The first is the left eye being severely crossed (strabismus), which is less urgent and we intend to get treated in due time. The other problem is a complication in his unaffected right eye that could cause blindness if not addressed. Over the past several weeks, he's been taken in once per week for treatment and evaluation.

Please pray for Boaz, that the treatment will be successful and his eyesight won't be damaged. If you would like to assist with the medical costs, we would be deeply grateful. Please click here to make a donation to help out (type "Boaz" in the Donation Destination area).

Kenya Emergency Fund in Action

2008-02-14T07:08:00.000-08:00

After several attempts over a slow network, Margaret was able to send some pictures of the Lahash relief effort.

These show the emergency fund donations put into action helping children that have suffered during the turmoil. Thank you so much to all the emergency fund donors! May God bless you for your generosity.

Above photo: staple foods like corn meal (for Ugali), rice, and beans can be stretched a long way for families low on supplies.

Above photo: the Tenderfeet team bundles up bags for each needy family.

Here Tenderfeet children like Moses Mirigi (red sweater center) and Faith Wambui (blue dress left) receive the supplies at the Jamuhuri showgrounds, where the food is distributed.

February Kenya Updates

2008-02-03T18:14:00.000-08:00

Update (Feb. 19, 8:00 PM Central time USA):

After much deliberation and weighing of options, we have decided to change the focus of Tenderfeet to the Riruta area. This is the safer area that the school has been relocated to after Mama Margaret had to flee Kibera. As mentioned before, Riruta is about 5 miles from Kibera. It is still quite a poor area, but not on the massive scale of Kibera.

Therefore, starting immediately, Margaret will begin working in the community to find needy children who have no opportunity to go to school. The new building is slightly smaller, so we will have about 50 kids for 2008.

One of the big concerns was the 60 or so students we are unfortunately having to leave behind in Kibera. Since January marks the beginning of the new school year, there were about 20 of the previous 60 students that have now moved on to the next level of school.

So that leaves 40 of the 60 that would be attending Tenderfeet if it was still in Kibera. Of these remaining 40, Margaret has identified about 20 who are extremely poor and vulnerable and would not be able to afford school. The other 20 are in a slightly better position and will have other options.

For the month of February, we have paid for the transportation of many of these 20 (see picture below), but it is too expensive long-term.

Therefore, going forward in the months of March and beyond, for the 20 most vulnerable, we will offer scholarships so they can attend a school in Kibera. It's much, much cheaper than busing them to the new school site. In fact, a good school has opened in a church near the old Tenderfeet site. The school charges school fees of 200 Kenyan shillings per month (about $3), plus 100 shillings for the child to be in the feeding program.

Sadly, this is too much for these very poor children, so for these kids, we will pay their fees at least through the remainder of 2008 (10 months - 2 vacation months). After 2008, some will go on to the next level, and the remainder we will deal with on a case-by-case basis.

So in the next two weeks, we are focused on the children that are riding the bus to the school as well as finding deserving children from the Riruta area to attend the school from March onward.

Update (Feb. 14, 9:00 AM Central time USA):

We received updates and photos of the relief effort in action. Please see this post for more details.

Update (Feb. 7, 9:00 PM Central time USA):

Today Mama Margaret signed a lease agreement with the landlord for a new school building (see pictures, top is Margaret in the front, bottom is Margaret's sister Mary arranging desks). The building is nicer (brick vs. iron sheet) than the previous school building in Kibera. Unfortunately, though, it is no longer easily accessible for the children. The new location is in Riruta, near the area where Margaret has relocated for safety. Riruta is west of Kibera, near Dagoretti.

Earlier this week, the items in the school were transported by Frank out of Kibera on hand carts (similar to this photo). This was done in response to threats that the school would be burned by a gang of thugs.

Everything in the school -- desks, supplies, cupboards, and so on -- was moved except for a few desks that were in bad shape anyway. Moving the items with handcarts was dangerous, tense, and exhausting. Margaret paid for a security escort, but it was still a scary experience. Handcarts were used because trucks refused to enter Kibera for fear of being burned, as several had been in the last month.

The handcarts were pulled 15 minutes away to the Jamuhuri Showgrounds, a safe area being used for refugees and a transportation hub. When all the items were moved, the items could then be loaded onto a truck which took them 3-4 miles to Riruta and the new school building.

Today, the leader of the Luo thugs called Margaret and threatened to cut her head off if she came into Kibera again since she is a Kikuyu. The same group looted a school near Tenderfeet operated by a Kikuyu under the auspices of the Methodist Church.

Now Margaret is investigating options for transporting the children from Kibera to Riruta, such as renting a school bus. In the meantime, school will have to be suspended.

Update (Feb. 3, 9:00 PM Central time USA):

At Tenderfeet, school has been open and closed, open and closed in reaction to events in the country.

For instance, two members of parliament from the opposition party were killed last week, causing flare-ups of violence. In response, the school closed. During pockets of calm, the school has been open.

Now a gang of thugs is threatening to burn the school down. Mama Margaret is responding with a plan to relocate the items within the school to a safer area. We are hoping to have this complete in the next few days.

In the midst of all this horrible news, there are a few bright spots. For example, even as the threats were made to burn the school, Margaret was en route to taking Shadrack to a special boarding school in northern Nairobi called The Treeside School.

Treeside is aimed at educating children like Shadrack who have special challenges. Due to setbacks caused by his brain abscess, doctors have recommended Shadrack go to a school like Treeside to help him make the best progress with respect to his developmental needs. The school is a bit expensive, but thanks to the wonderful Christian youth group "Corby's Castle", the fees can be paid. Please see the photo of Shadrack in his new school uniform.

In Eldoret, Lahash is seeking to assist the the clients remaining in the Munyaka area as well as some that have relocated, including Lucy and Emily in Nyahururu.

Please note: previous updates can be found here and here.

Kenya Post-Election Updates

2008-01-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

Please Note: newer updates can be found here.

Update (Jan. 28, 10:00 PM Central time USA): The situation in Kibera continues to be up and down. Hostility towards Kikuyus is a big problem for Mama Margaret. Violence flares up in different parts of Kenya each day. To get some sense of the havoc, you may be interested in a collection of images a blogger has collected the past month. Most are quite graphic and difficult to take, so please be warned, but they do serve to demonstrate the severity of the situation. Please click here to visit the blog.

Gangs of Luos have come by the school a few times and demanded to see the headteacher. Fortunately, Mama Margaret was away on business each time. Teacher Karen, a Luo, has tried to get the thugs to leave the school alone by claiming to be the school director, but they seem to know or suspect that the school is run by a Kikuyu.

During the past week, Margaret has stayed home a few of the days when it was too dangerous, as well as traveling to the hospital and a potential school on behalf of Shadrack. However, Karen and Tenderfeet's new teacher, Lydia, have been doing a great job keeping the school running in Margaret's absence. Lydia taught at Tenderfeet a few years back, and was glad to return this year. Today, 29 students attended. The picture was taken last week during a peaceful day at school

Meanwhile, Frank has been assisting the families in the community with funds made possible through the Kenya Emergency packs. Some of the Kikuyu families are facing a difficult decision whether to return to Kibera or relocate. Unfortunately, relocation means possibly higher rent and educational costs. Currently, most of them are staying at the Jamhuri showgrounds. These include the families of Esther Nyambura, Alex Nduati, Boaz Osebe, Collins Mutunga, Moses Mirigi, and Faith Kaluki.

Update (Jan. 19, 10:00 PM Central time USA): The demonstrations Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday caused more violence and turmoil, though not to the extent of those immediately following the elections.

In Eldoret, the situation is very difficult for the minority Kikuyu families in the slum of Munyaka. They are a target for tribal hostility and violence from thugs in surrounding Nandi communities.

Lahash is coordinating the relocation of 22 children (some of whom are pictured below). Two children were relocated this past week. Most of them are quite young, and will be accompanied by guardians. During the past few weeks, these children have missed meals and slept outside. Their families are now seeking to transport the children to more peaceful areas of Kenya, where they will stay with relatives and family friends.

It will be a great blessing for the children to be in safer situations, where food and security are assured. This relocation effort would be impossible without the generous donations to the Emergency Fund. Our deepest thanks to the wonderful donors!

In Nairobi, Mama Margaret has relocated to Riruta, an area that's a 30 minute walk from Tenderfeet. She will ride the bus in every day to teach at the school, but because there is so much animosity towards Margaret's Kikuyu tribe in Luo-dominated Kibera, it's not wise for her to live in the community any more.

The school was closed Wednesday-Friday since it was not safe in Kibera due to the violence associated with election demonstrations. Several people were killed in Kibera, including some shot by police. Nevertheless, Raila Odinga has announced that he will not call for further demonstrations for the time being, so Kibera is expected to be more stable in the coming week. Mama Margaret is planning to open the school on Monday, though she says no vehicles will risk passing through the area. Therefore, she will walk to school until the buses start running again.

Update (Jan. 15, 12:00 PM Central time USA): Tenderfeet opened for the new year yesterday, with eight children showing up. The enrollment should be 60 children when things return to normal, and Mama Margaret expects all the children to eventually return as time goes on.

There was a half-day of school today as Parliament met for the first day under the current administration. Demonstrations are supposed to start tomorrow (not Tuesday, as mentioned in the previous update).

School will be closed the rest of the week because it's expected to be potentially dangerous in Kibera. Mama Margaret (a Kikuyu) tells me that leaflets had been spread through Kibera promising that all Kikuyus would be killed. So tribal tensions remain high despite the relative calm of the last week. Many diplomats and foreign dignataries are pressuring the Kenyan leaders to reconcile, so let us hope and pray that progress will be made.

Update (Jan. 12, 10:00 PM Central time USA): School is still on track to start Monday at Tenderfeet. Because of planned demonstrations Tuesday, the school will be opened only in the morning on Tuesday. We are hoping and praying that these demonstrations won't lead to more waves of violence.

Mama Margaret reports that they have managed to contact more and more of the families of Tenderfeet students. So far, all are OK, though many are facing challenges getting back on their feet. Thanks to donors who have been making a difference through emergency packs, a great deal of suffering has been avoided.

Lucy and her family have relocated from Eldoret to Nyahururu. They have been scrambling to find a school for her as well as her younger sister Shiro. Because of Lucy's medical situation, extra challenges are involved. I was relieved to hear her father tell me today that they believe they have found a school with teachers that understand her special needs because Lucy was in tears at the thought of leaving the Eldo-Excel school which had been so supportive and positive.

Some sad news is that Mama Edna's home in Ilula (near Eldoret) was burned down. I visited this little house in the country and from trees in their orchard we picked fruit for needy children. Edna and her husband had clearly put years of effort into fixing up their small farm. After tirelessly serving the community all this time, she is now left homeless. Her family will have to start over, like so many victims of this terrible period.

Update (Jan. 9, 4:00 PM Central time USA): Tensions remain high, but peace has returned for the most part to Kibera and Eldoret. Now the focus has shifted to dealing with the aftermath of the elections.

Mama Margaret is gearing up for school to start next Monday. She will pick up another wire transfer tomorrow, including funds for the school and funds donated as Emergency Pack s. For instance, three of the families that lost their homes will receive rent assistance in getting started in new residences. The rent will be $15 per month, which is a lot for a family that has lost everything.

In Eldoret, the minority Kikuyu people in the slum of Munyaka continue to evacuate the area when possible, relocating to safer areas in other parts of the country. Thousands of those unable or unwilling to relocate are remaining in secure areas near churches and the police department.

Update (Jan. 7, 3:00 PM Central time USA): Great news for peace: the planned demonstrations have been called off by the opposition leadership. Negotiations are taking place and perhaps there is hope for a lasting solution.

Mama Margaret said she plans to open the school next Monday, January 14. When I asked her "is this too soon?" she laughed and said it is too late. I asked her which students would be able to show up and would it be safe for her.

Margaret said she doesn't know which would be able to make it, but she wants the school to be available to those that can. She also said she thinks it will be safe because most of the students are Luo.

I received a heartbreaking email from Jane Waithaka today, who is the director of Lucy's school in Munyaka (outside of Eldoret). She reports on the struggles of the children and innocent people in the slums during this time of unrest and the dangers she herself has faced trying to flee tribal violence.

Jane is safe for the time being in her parent's home in the countryside, but asks for our prayers and support for the children of the slums who are now suffering without food or shelter. The picture below is Jane (in the denim jacket) holding an orphaned child in a church compound in Munyaka.

Update (Jan. 6, 4:00 PM Central time USA): The situation in Eldoret and Nairobi has remained calm for the time being, though more demonstrations are planned for next week. There has been little progress on reconciliation. We are hoping that we are seeing the last of the violence, and not the calm before another storm.

Nick in Eldoret, and Frank and Mama Margaret in Kibera have all found new homes. It is no longer safe for Nick or Margaret to remain in their old homes because of the tribal tensions and possibility of violence, and Frank's place was burned down. Frank has lost pretty much everything he owned, including the new eyeglasses he had recently been fitted with.

All three are relocating to more secure areas that are nearby where they used to live, but much safer.

Many families are now homeless and with very limited access to food and supplies. The U.N. is attempting to provide relief, but it's hit-or-miss for any given family whether they will receive help.

Two wire transfers were picked up yesterday, one by Mama Margaret in Kibera, and one by Nick in Eldoret. The emergency packs have been distributed and are an answered prayer to many desperate people who are now able to eat. Thank you so much for the generous donations. It's not to late to make a difference -- in fact, in many ways the hard part is just beginning for some that have lost everything. Please click here to provide an emergency pack to a family in need.

Update (Jan. 5, 10:00 AM Pacific time USA): We were able to get some initial donations into the hands of Margaret and Nick to help the community. The UN estimates that hundreds of thousands need food at this time with 10,000 camped around the Catholic Church in Eldoret alone.
Margaret sent some photos of Kibera after the riots. She reports gratitude that she, her family, and all of the teachers are safe. Three families whose children attend Tenderfeet had their homes burned down.
The looted housing finance office opposite the the African Inland Church.

The burned out Luthern church in Olympic.

Displaced families in Kianda village.

Container looted and burned on the road.

Update (Jan. 4, 11:30 AM Central time USA): In Nairobi, tensions remain extremely high, though there were no large outbreaks of violence.

Putting herself at personal risk, Mama Margaret was able to evacuate home and school items though it was very difficult. There were no trucks available, so she had to hire carts to move everything. It was an exhausting and nerve-wracking day.

In Eldoret, there is also relative calm, though tensions are high there as well. Nick was unable to pick up the wire transfer sent for helping families in Eldoret. Unfortunately, the only bank that handles MoneyGram transfers is closed indefinitely. We will retry the transfer again through WesternUnion and he should be able to get it tomorrow. He reports that many families have gone days without food.

Our deepest thanks to the donors who have sponsored emergency packs. Your assistance will mean families in desperate situations have food to eat and supplies to live on. If you are interested in making a difference, please click here.

Please note: you can find previous updates here.

Elections in Kenya

2007-12-29T06:43:00.000-08:00

Please note: a new blog post for updates has been started since this one has grown too long. The new post can be found here.

Update (Jan. 3, 12:30 PM Central time USA): The protest expected today was blocked from taking place in the city center, so instead many of the protesters were left stuck in Kibera, angry to begin with and even more furious they were not allowed to voice their grievances as planned.

So the mob has turned back on Kibera, and has spent the day burning down more of the slums. The huge AIC church across the railroad tracks was burned today, as was the house of student Moses Mirigi and likely many more student's homes. Mama Margaret tells me that her house and Tenderfeet school have so far not been burned, but it may just be a matter of time. She will attempt to evacuate the items tomorrow by hiring a security team and a truck. You can see a map of this area here (switch to satellite view).

Frank was attacked as he attempted to assist those in danger, but is not badly hurt. Margaret's husband Daniel has not slept the past 5 nights as he has joined neighbors trying to protect the community. She says he is able to sometimes get a few hours of sleep during the day.

In Eldoret, Nick will spend another night outside of the police station, and has been approached by many in the community who have received assistance. Most have not had a meal in days. Lucy's father will attempt to send Lucy, her sister Shiro, and their mother to a safer location tomorrow while he remains behind.

Wire transfers will be sent this afternoon to hopefully be picked up tomorrow in Eldoret and Nairobi. Thank you to those who have responded with donations. 100% of money received will be feeding hungry children and victims of the riots as soon as tomorrow. If you would like to help, please visit this page.

Update (Jan. 2, 11:30 PM Central time USA): It's morning in Kenya, and in general the country seems to be settling down. However, Raila Odinga is attempting to mount a massive demonstration in Nairobi today to protest the election and declare himself the true winner. The Kibaki government has promised to block roads and prevent the protest, so it will be a volatile situation in Nairobi. Most who are not strong Raila supporters are planning to stay indoors and avoid trouble.

I spoke briefly with Margaret, Nick, Nick's wife Mary, and Lucy's father David. All are safe and OK, though food shortages are becoming more and more of a concern. Soon it could become critical. The need for security has meant all transportation is being severely limited, which has caused the shipment of food and other supplies to be greatly hindered.

Our prayers are that today will be peaceful and life can return to normal in Kenya.

Update (Jan. 2, 12:30 PM Central time USA): It's 9:30 PM in Kenya, and Nick will stay outside the police station overnight, along with a large crowd that are there for safety. He is extremely relieved. He believes the situation in Eldoret may be stabilizing, though tensions are still high.

Nick reports that Agripina and her family are safe at the College. Nick's wife and children are remaining for the time being in Nairobi where they are doing well in a secure part of town.

Mama Margaret has withdrawn some emergency funds and bought enough food and supplies for those in Kibera she knows that are suffering, such as Teacher Karen, Frank, and some of the families of students. Kibera is in terrible shape after the fires and looting, but things have settled down at the present time. Margaret still doesn't feel safe in Kibera, so she continues to spend the nights in nearby Dagoretti at her sister's house.

There is a planned large demonstration for the challenger in Nairobi tomorrow that could cause another outbreak of violence. Please pray that the current relative peace in Nairobi will continue despite whatever demonstrations take place.

Update (Jan. 1, 11:30 PM Central time USA): I just spoke with Nick. David has escorted him safely out of Munyaka, which was the hard part since he had to make it through a potentially hostile population.

He was then able to walk in to Eldoret and is now safe at last.

Nick has tried to contact Agripina Angote who is part of the SCF team but has not gotten through. He believes she may be staying at the Missionary College right now for safety.

Margaret says that in Kibera, the Luo agitators have agreed to stop causing problems, but the damage is extensive. Overall, life is returning to normal in Nairobi though tensions are still high. She will go to the bank today and withdraw the current balance to give emergency assistance to some she knows in desperate situations. The monthly wire transfer should be sent later in the week with additional funds for relief and school operations. It's possible the school will resume in the next few weeks.

Update (Jan. 1, 11:30 AM Central time USA): Mama Margaret reports that conditions in Nairobi have improved significantly, though she is choosing to stay in Dagoretti a while longer before returning to Kibera. Frank, Teachers Karen and Elizabeth, and others in the Tenderfeet family are all OK.

The price of groceries have shot up, for instance a small container of milk went from 20 to 50 shillings in the last week. Frank's house was looted, but friends were able to move some items out before the looters arrived.

The situation Eldoret has gotten worse in many respects. The most horrible incident involved a church filled with Kikuyu's taking refuge that was burned, with as many as 30 or more (including women and children) being killed. The story is here.

Nick remains in his house, though he now has some food and there are police and military patrols to control looting and violence in Munyaka. Jennifer is currently safe in nearby Hawaii (a Nandi community), but tells me that some Nandi thugs were hunting for Kikuyu in the area. Since she is Nandi, she was left alone. I also spoke with Sven Hofmann, the German social worker visiting for 5 months. He is in the town of Eldoret and is safe in his compound, but says it is too dangerous to leave his room.

Everyone's fear is that the church episode will spark a new round of reprisals and violence, especially in Eldoret.

Update (Jan. 1, 12:30 AM Central time USA): The situation seems to be improving in Nairobi and perhaps Eldoret as well. Margaret reports that there has been no recent looting or violence in the Kibera area (she is still in Dagoretti, but her husband Daniel is informing her of the conditions in Kibera). Margaret's house and the school are still intact and everyone is doing well, hoping for some normalcy to return to Nairobi.

Things are more difficult for Nick, who has been hiding in a crawlspace above his ceiling since yesterday. 5 potentially dangerous men came in at one point and were occupying his house for several hours, eating his food. He is quite scared for his safety, but Lucy's father David (who is on the security council for the Kikuyu slum of Munyaka) has just stopped by (at 8:30 AM Kenya time) and told Nick that he should stay put for now. David said it's not a good idea for a Nandi to be in the currently hostile streets of Munyaka.

As long as Nick stays in his house, no one should disturb him at this point, according to David. The only people going house to house are the security team. And if anyone should come in to harm Nick, Nick can contact David who will be closeby to intervene.

Update (Dec. 31, 9:00 AM Central time USA): Looting, violence, and arson have continued but everyone mentioned in the updates below is safe. Tribal killings have continued, and in places like Munyaka and Silas, the women and children are staying in church compounds for safety. Nick will try to make it into Eldoret tomorrow because he feels it is dangerous for him to stay in Munyaka. Margaret will remain in Dagoretti for the next few days to wait and see what happens.

Read more here.

Now the additional problem of having enough to eat is becoming a real concern. So many shops have been looted and burned that it will be difficult to buy food even if things settle down.

Please continue to keep in your prayers our friends in Kenya and the millions of innocent people who are suffering because of a violent few. I asked Jennifer and Margaret if they have ever witnessed anything in Kenya like this in their lifetimes (both are in their forties), and they both said nothing compares to this.

Update (Dec. 30, 11:30 PM Central time USA): It was a terrible night in Kenya as rioting continued throughout cities across the country, including Kibera and Eldoret. Houses and shops were burned throughout Sunday afternoon and night. Tribal violence has continued to escalate. Read more here.

In Kibera, thugs from the Luo tribe were targeting Kikuyu businesses and residents, who are in the minority and seen as the enemy. Mama Margaret (who is Kikuyu) and her family stayed with a Luo neighbor who kept them safe through the night.

Monday morning (Kenya time), Margaret set off on foot for her sister's place an hour away in Dagoretti (where it is calmer), and I spoke with her when she arrived safely. She feels it is no longer safe for her in Kibera. Her husband Daniel (a member of the Kisi tribe) and Shadrack (a Luo) will be able to remain safely in Kibera for the time being. The school and Margaret's house have not been burned or looted at this time. Frank Atieli is OK.

Nick is remaining in his house because he is in a community of Kikuyu now hostile towards his tribe (Nandi). Lucy's father David (a Kikuyu) is part of the community security force and is keeping Nick safe and informed. Nick's wife and children are safe in a peaceful part of Nairobi. Jennifer Cheserek is also OK.

Update (Dec. 30, 9:00 AM Central time USA): The news from Kenya is that everybody is OK right now, but the results have just been announced that the current president has won the election. This has caused supporters of the challenger to lash out and tensions are higher than ever. Please pray for Mama Margaret and her family in Kibera, where many of the problems have been taking place.

Update (Dec. 29, 11:00 PM Central time USA): I just spoke with Margaret's husband Daniel as well as Nick (Sunday morning in Kenya). Although the problems with looting and violence have continued, Margaret, Nick and their families are still safe. Everyone is awaiting the results of the election. The results are possibly going to be announced on Sunday.

A presidential election took place this past Thursday, December 27. It's been a close race that splits the country along tribal lines. As of 5:00 PM Saturday (Kenya time), the election is still too close to call and the delays have escalated tensions. Please read more here.

The two Lahash projects in Kenya, Tenderfeet Education Center (in Kibera) and Silas Christian Foundation (in Eldoret) are unfortunately located in trouble hotspots.

I've called Mama Margaret, Nick Kemboi and several other friends in these areas and they are OK. Nevertheless, they report there is looting, arson, violence, tribal clashes, and chaos. Margaret and Nick are both locked in their compounds behind iron doors waiting for things to hopefully settle down.

The tribes that are involved are the Kikuyu tribe (supporting the current president) and the Nandi and Luo tribes (supporting the challenger). It just so happens that Margaret is a Kikuyu surrounded by Luos and Nick is a Nandi surrounded by Kikuyus (a small community of Kikuyu who are surrounded by a larger community of Nandi!). So both project leaders are in a delicate situation, though both are well-known and respected in their communities.

Please pray for our friends in Kenya and the nation as a whole that the results will be announced soon and will be accepted by everyone.

Update on Mama Margaret

2007-12-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

A quick update on Mama Margaret. A previous post described the tragic situation of her father being killed. Since then, her family has been working hard at fundraising and have made some progress.

The money they have raised, together with generous donations from wonderful friends in Rhode Island and Canada mean that the family now has enough to cover the funeral costs. What seemed impossible only a few days ago is now a reality.

On behalf of Mama Margaret, thank you and God Bless you for your prayers and concern.

Sad News From Kenya

2007-12-09T16:30:00.000-08:00

Tragedy has come again to Tenderfeet. The terrible news is that Mama Margaret's father was killed by thugs on Friday. He lived 4 hours from Nairobi. After hearing the news, Margaret travelled to be at her parent's home with the family over the weekend.

Margaret's family has spent the weekend trying to comfort each other in their shock and heartbreak.

The family is now trying to raise funds for his funeral expenses which will be several hundred dollars. Please keep this situation in your prayers.

If you would like to assist Margaret in the funds for her father's funeral, please contact dmitchell@lahash.net or you can make an online donation. For online donations, please choose "other" and type "Tenderfeet Funeral" in the Donation Destination field.

Tragedy Comes to Tenderfeet

2007-08-31T08:54:00.000-07:00

Tragedy has come to Tenderfeet. Unfortunately, what has happened is not unusual in the horrible conditions of the slums.

One of the parents of a student has died. Jeffson Ochoki (see picture to the right) is a 5 year old student at Tenderfeet, whose two older brothers had also attended the school. Mama Margaret has known and cared about this family for many years. Both parents were HIV positive. Their father's health has prevented him from working for some time now, and he has basically withdrawn from life, spending most of the time in bed, silently shutting out the world.

Their mother, Jane, had done everything possible to pick up the slack. She worked tirelessly as she struggled to earn enough to pay for rent and groceries. On a good month, she could earn $50-$70 by washing other peoples' clothes in a small washtub and doing other odd jobs she was able to find. With this income, the family might just get by, as long as there were no surprises or emergencies.

Unfortunately, the weather in Nairobi has been cold and damp for months (at almost 6000 ft elevation it often gets quite chilly). This, on top of her HIV, having her hands always in the cold water of washtubs as well as the unsanitary conditions of Kibera, probably led to Jane developing a case of pneumonia.

Because her family didn't have the $30 on hand that it would take to go to the doctor or get medication, her condition got worse and she died in her bed this week. Usually, when a parent or guardian gets sick, Mama Margaret and the Tenderfeet team (together with Lahash donors) spring into action and make sure the parent or guardian receives proper medical attention. Jacklyn Otieno (who is now much-improved, see picture to the right) is a single mother whose life was recently saved this way. Shadrack's life was also saved through his brain surgery.

Time and time again, Tenderfeet has come to the rescue of the desperately ill. Sadly, Margaret was away on school business while school was out on break, and didn't hear about what happened until she got back and it was too late. Our hearts are broken by this cruel and needless loss of life. Now the four children are essentially orphans, since their father is physically and mentally unable to take care of them.

When you think that $30 probably could have saved Jane, it becomes clear how important every donation is. Many donors are already making a huge difference for these children and their community. For more information about getting involved, please email dmitchell@lahash.net.

Tenderfeet News

2007-08-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

School is out in the month of August in Kenya, and this includes Tenderfeet. But still much is going on. A potential new site has been identified for the school in a much better area of Kibera.

Partial progress was made this past week on a land survey. In Kenya, an official survey is a multi-step process. First, the existence of the plot area itself must be checked in person and the records are then put together.

The next step is to measure the edges of the plot itself and where it lies on the map. This is supposed to take place tomorrow (August 20). Lahash treasurer Leisha Adams and her father Sam visited last week and met the landowner, Margaret Wambui (see picture to the right, where they enjoy a meal at Mama Margaret's house). When the survey is finished, we should have a good idea of how much money must be raised to purchase the plot.

In other news, Shadrack is responding well to being taken off his medication. As mentioned before, following his surgery in March, has has been kept on medication to keep his body stable while it recovers. According to the doctors, everything looks good so far. What a long and difficult journey it's been, but what a blessing to see how well he is doing now!

Unfortunately, things have not gone as well for Jacklyn Otieno lately. Recall that Jacklyn's son Collins (pictured below right) attends Tenderfeet, and Jacklyn has received assistance while she struggles with her health problems. After seeing her health improve for a few months, she had a bad fall which has severely injured her legs. She was able to get X-rays which showed no bones were broken. However, the pain has been so bad, she has not even been able to walk. There is a chance it was a muscle or ligament tear.

Yesterday, Frank Atieli and Mama Margaret's husband Daniel took Jacklyn groceries and pain medication prescribed by the doctor (Mama Margaret is visiting a cousin out of town). When they arrived, the situation was quite serious. The family (Jacklyn and her two children) had run out of money and had not been getting enough to eat.

Collins was in tears because of his hunger and concern for his mother. Thanks to Lahash donors, the family received a real boost and is now eating better, and Jacklyn will get continued medical help. Please pray for this family that they will overcome the severe hardships they have been facing.

News About Lucy

2007-07-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

Lucy is a 10-year old girl with physical disabilities that has been receiving assistance from the Silas Christian Foundation. Lucy's parents have not been able to keep up with the medical costs associated with the nerve damage at the root of Lucy's problems, but Lahash donors have ensured that she gets the help she needs.

Dan recently posted that Lucy was discharged from the hospital, but unfortunately that didn't go through as everyone expected. In fact, her condition only has gotten worse. She was a patient in the Eldoret hospital for almost 3 weeks for treatment of Malaria and seriously infected sores on her legs. The sores were caused by the braces she wears (pictured below right) because she is unable to walk by herself due to her damaged nerves -- she was a conjoined twin separated as an infant, and the nerve damage was caused by the separation surgery.

The doctors decided Lucy needed a skin graft to repair the severely affected areas. Sadly, the care she received during the three weeks was often quite poor and the sores became even more infected and the graft kept being postponed. It looked more and more like Lucy's condition would continue deteriorating with little hope for improvement.

Finally, Nick and Dr. Oronje decided to transfer her to the AIC Hospital in Kijabe, where she has received excellent care in the past. The hope was that in Kijabe, she would at last get the proper attention she deserved. She was discharged from the Eldoret hospital Thursday and traveled to Kijabe on an overnight bus ride (the trip can often take up to 8 hours).

She arrived in Kijabe Friday morning and was seen by doctors at the hospital. They decided the bacterial infection had to be eliminated before a skin graft could be attempted. Fortunately, the treatment of the infection can be done at home by her mother Monicah, who was shown the proper way to treat and clean the sores. Lucy received antibiotics and medication to ensure the quickest recovery. In another month, the situation will be reevaluated and if she is ready, Lucy will get the skin graft. Since she won't be able to attend school in the meantime, Nick has arranged for her to work on homework and assignments from home.

Please remember Lucy and her family as they try to get past this problem. It's been a deeply discouraging experience for everyone involved, including Nick, because so much of the suffering was unnecessary. Nevertheless, now there is a new optimism that things will improve for Lucy.

Ten for Tenderfeet Launched

2007-04-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

First, please note we have officially launched the Ten for Tenderfeet sponsorship program. Please check it out and see how you can join the Tenderfeet team in serving the desperately poor children of Africa's largest slum.

The school resumed this week. Classes are still meeting at the church, and though the pastor has allowed them to stay a few more days, they are expected to move out as soon as possible.

Some construction remains for the new building. Plywood must be put up on the walls to protect the children from being injured by the bare metal edges. In addition, a latrine needs to be completed, and wiring needs to be installed for classroom lights. Lastly, the kitchen will need to be finished.

Shadrack's Surgery

2007-04-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Tenderfeet school is still at the church awaiting the new floors to be installed in the new building. Matters have been put on hold as the Tenderfeet team has dealt with Shadrack's surgery and recovery, as well as the illness of both Mama Margaret's son Ezra as well as Teacher Karen's son, Ian. Fortunately, the church where the school is currently located has allowed Tenderfeet to stay several more days.

The school will be in recess on Good Friday, April 6th, and the following week. During the week school is out, the steps to move the school will be finalized. The children will still be fed while school is out, but no lessons will be taught.

A Lease is Signed for the New Building

2007-03-23T20:00:00.000-07:00

Good news! The lawyer was hired, and the lease agreement for the school's new building was signed Friday, March 23. This was a huge step for the school. The rented building -- though it still leaves a lot to be desired -- will nevertheless be a major improvement over the previous locations of the school.

Nick Kipkorir traveled seven hours by bus from Eldoret to assist Margaret with the paperwork and details. He was a big help to Mama Margaret during this stressful process.

The building is still partly under construction. The three rooms which will serve as classrooms are complete and will have concrete floors installed (currently, there's only dirt) in time for the arrival of the students on April 2nd. The remaining three rooms are still under construction by the landlord. They will eventually serve as a kitchen and additional teaching space.

Also, thank you for your prayers for Samantha, Mama Margaret's daughter. She has recovered from her illness and has returned to school.

More pictures and news are coming soon!

A New Location For Tenderfeet

2007-03-20T06:18:00.000-07:00

It's been a hectic month at Tenderfeet. As you may recall, the school will have to vacate the church where they are currently located by the end of this month. So Mama Margaret has been searching for a new location, all the while shuttling Shadrack back and forth to the hospital for his MRI, test results, and waiting to talk to the surgeon (more on Shadrack here) .

In addition, Margaret's 11-year-old daughter, Samantha, has been sick with Malaria.

Please pray for Mama Margaret, Samantha, Shadrack, and the Tenderfeet school. It's been a rough few weeks!

Hopefully, though, this difficult period has been the darkness before the dawn. Things are looking up -- Shadrack's surgery is likely to be next week, Samantha was treated at the hospital and seems to be on the road to recovery, and a new school location has been found.

Also, Mama Margaret and the Tenderfeet leadership team have been fortunate to recently have the kind assistance of Lahash's East Africa Coordinator, Edwin Angote (pictured here with Dan Holcomb, Lahash president).

The new location is a six-room building in the Kianda Area of Kibera. Each room is only 10 feet by 12 feet, so it will be a tight squeeze. But the school will certainly benefit from the increased stability.

The next steps in the move will come in quick succession. A lawyer needs to be hired, in order that a one-year lease can be signed. This is to prevent any more arbitrary evictions, like the three that have occurred in the past year.

Next, a floor has to be poured in the new building, at least in the 3 rooms that will be designated as classrooms. Lastly, the school furniture and supplies will have to be moved over to the new spot. Much more on the move will be shared as events unfold.

There are definitely some financial hurdles ahead. The lawyer will cost around $250, the floor will be around $400, and the rent at the new facility will be $180 per month. If you would like to get involved, please contact Lahash. Also, please stay tuned as we roll out a new sponsorship program in the next few weeks.