Changing Lives at Ogada Children’s Home

This past year marked another successful year of partnership between Pearl S. Buck International and Chariots for Hope’s Ogada Children’s Home, made possible by the generous support of donors and child sponsors.

Ogada’s dorms were fully renovated with new windows, ceilings, and tiled floors— creating a safe, warm, and comfortable home where children can sleep without leaks, cold drafts, or injury risks. Chariots for Hope was able to quickly address an urgent need by repairing and replacing girls’ bathroom facilities, ensuring children now have a safe and sanitary place to use the bathroom.

High school and college students were equipped with the technology they needed to succeed academically, with over 40 laptops provided. Students celebrated graduations, prepared to enter primary school, were supported through their exams, and enjoyed recreation days and educational field trips.

A variety of programs were implemented this past year. Trauma-informed educational camps at three Chariots homes helped adolescents and young men and women gain the healing, safety, and confidence to protect themselves against abuse. Ogada and the other children’s homes invested in practical skill-building through activities such as cooking, cleaning, gardening, and environmental programs such as tree planting and Mazingira Day celebrations.

Leadership meeting and training took place as well. Managers, social workers, and national staff all gathered together in Kitui for a four-day leadership meeting to plan, collaborate, and learn.

Chariots for Hope also expanded its community care. 650 Christmas baskets filled with food and essential supplies were distributed to children visiting their guardians—providing meaningful support to their families during the holidays. Eye screenings were also provided to 800 people, including 500 community members and Chariots children. Eyeglasses were provided to those who needed them— representing meaningful progress in caring for the broader Kenya community.

Children received critical medical care and staff benefited from training on baby development and teenage health, while several homes navigated individual medical needs such as upcoming cataract surgery.

The children also enjoyed visits from local churches, schools, partner organizations, and sponsors who brought gifts, celebrations, and encouragement; several homes also participated in community performances and public events.

Check out our gift catalog page on our website for ways to help the children living in Ogada Children’s Home https://pearlsbuck.org/help-children-in-need/gift-catalog/