Welcome to Our New Foster Home in Bamburi!
We are thrilled to share that Gap Kenya’s second foster home has officially opened in Bamburi, in a safe gated estate. Foster parents Janet and Dan, together with their children Liam, Jadyn, and Hazel, have opened their hearts to four amazing young people from the Mwakirunge dumpsite.
So, who are our new residents?
Simon (7)
Simon has had a tough start to life. His school attendance has been very poor attending less than 36 times last term – and he is still unable to read or write. Most days he is seen scavenging or playing on the garbage dump, with little encouragement from his parents, who sadly believe this is the life he will grow up to lead.
At Gap Kenya, we believe every child deserves a chance to be loved, cared for, and educated. Simon’s whole world has been the dump, where he roams freely. He is cheeky, stubborn, and restless – but always loveable. Even in the Joseph Centre he was a challenge, unable to sit still or concentrate for long.
At first, Simon’s parents were unsure about him moving into the foster home, but eventually they agreed. Already we’ve seen a change – Simon has calmed down, he loves having parents to guide him, and he’s enjoying life on the estate with other children. He even chose the top bunk in his new bedroom – his first ever bed!
Simon will not return to school until January, as he is far behind for his age group. In the meantime, Janet and Dan are working with him daily on literacy and numeracy, giving him the foundations he needs. When he visits his parents in October, we are praying they will be amazed by his transformation.
Zakaria (7)
Zakaria has been attending school with support from Gap Kenya, and he will now move to a school closer to the foster home. Settling into family life is a big change for him, and this move gives him the stability and care every child needs to thrive. His mum is thrilled her son has this opportunity.
Hamisi (12)
Hamisi has also joined the home and will be enrolling in a nearby school. From the uncertainty of the dumpsite to the safety of family life, this is a huge step forward for him and initially he was anxious about this unknown environment. Education, structure, and love will give him the chance to see life from a completely new perspective and he is now loving his new home.
James (19)
James is registered disabled due to mild cerebral palsy, which affects his right hand and leg, and it takes him longer to learn. But James has a dream – to become a painter and decorator. With foster dad Dan’s skills as a decorator and sign writer, James is already receiving hands-on training. If he masters the basics, he will be able to enrol in college for a recognised qualification – giving him the chance to build an independent life away from the dumpsite. James is so very excited to be given this opportunity, but he has struggled so much during his young life he definitely deserves this chance.
David (17)
📖 Background: Has been attending the Stepping Stones Centre since 2023 but doesn’t remember how long he has lived on the streets. He once attended school and can read, write, and understand English well.
💙 Now: Recently moved into the foster home with a strong desire to return to school.
🎯 Next Step: Enrol in school soon and continue his education, building on the skills he already has.
