Overview

This summer I will be going to Kisumu, Kenya to do some research on the experiences of people living with HIV. My host, Bernadette, is benevolent member of the local community and founder of St Rita Community Based Orphan Care.

Her project re-homes orphans of HIV back into their community by empowering families, allowing them to support their children by providing financial support for their education, food, clothes and shelter. By keeping children in their community it keeps them rooted amongst the friends and family they have grown up with.

The Project

together we are the solution

Bernadette has been running the project for over 20 years, continuing to support those in here care through to university and adulthood. In addition, as a trained Psychologist, Bernadette provides counselling for families and works closely with local schools and Women’s empowerment groups, providing education and guidance to her community. Bernadette's philosophy is "together we are the solution" and as the ‘mumma’ of her community always has her door open to give support, advice or somewhere to sleep.

Our Goal

This year four orphans are hoping to start university to study radiography, analytical chemistry, teaching and commerce respectively. For them to secure a government education loan an amount must be paid upfront. Donations made on this page will go directly towards their places at university, enabling these intelligent young adults to fulfill their potential for a dazzling future.

This page is a starting point for any donations made towards such an amazing organisation. It has been created in collaboration with Alice and Bethan, two previous International Health students hosted by Bernadette. Over the next year we will be walking (up Mount Kenya), running (marathons) and cycling (England’s coast to coast) and more to raise as much money as we can.

#StRitaOrphanCare