In June 2006, HOPE
worldwide Kenya held Psychosocial Support Training for community members of Mathare. The participants included the youth of Rotary Community Corps and teachers who work directly with Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC).
The training focused on using psychosocial support tools which included: Kids Clubs, Support Groups, Counseling, Memory Boxes and Play Therapy in the support of OVC.
After the training the participants started Kids Clubs in the schools. The role of Kids Clubs is aimed at supporting children to grow emotionally, mentally and physically. Though the Kids Clubs are open to all children, they enable OVC to better deal with their challenges. Kids Clubs help them to use play as therapy, interact with other children, express themselves better and access guidance and counseling in a safe environment.
“Play To Grow” Launch
In October 14th 2006, the community members held a launch of the Kids Clubs.
Schools and children institutions which are running kids clubs took part in teambuilding activities and ball games. These activities presented a forum for the kids to socialize, have fun and build their esteem.
The children were happy with the activities; they were able to make new friends and learn from each other. Teacher Catherine of Mercy Care said she was also able to interact with other teachers.
A total of 605 children participated in the Kids Club launch. Schools and institutions that participated and the number of children present were:
Valley View Academy, 20; Anointed Church, 16; Excellent Care Centre, 33; Viara Academy, 35; Hope Compassion, 34; Mercy Care Centre, 50; MCEDO School, 80; Action Child, 54; Why Not (not school going), 45; St. John and Paul, 36; St James, 116; Nutri, 18; Community children, 68
Participating clubs were able to enjoy sweets donated by Kenafric Industries. These sweets were distributed during the Club meetings in October and will continue to be distributed in November. Kids Clubs in Mukuru were also presented with sweets. The children also enjoyed a meal of bread and milk provided by HOPE worldwide, juice provided by Promasidor and water by Nairobi Safari Club.
Our thanks go to Rotary Club of Nairobi, Nairobi Safari Club, Kenafric Industries, Promasidor for the overwhelming support during the launch of the Kids Clubs.
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