Nutrition
Our feeding program keeps children in school and improves academic performance.
Situation
In Kisumu West, where Umoja Foundation operates, hunger is a persistent challenge that impacts the education of orphaned and vulnerable children. With 6 in 10 Kenyan families unable to afford three meals a day, children often go hungry during school hours. This lack of proper nutrition not only affects their health but also their ability to focus and succeed in the classroom.
For many children in this region, lunchtime is not just about eating; it is a daunting task. Some must walk up to 3 kilometers back home, unsure if there will be food waiting for them. Others return home only to face the additional burden of cooking or doing household chores before racing against the clock to return to school. This exhausting routine drains their energy and diminishes their ability to concentrate on their studies, putting their education at risk.
The School Lunch Program
Umoja Foundation launched its School Feeding Program in 2008. Starting with 10 primary schools, the initiative quickly proved its value, addressing the feeding challenges and significantly improving school attendance and academic performance. The program's success sparked widespread demand, with many schools urging Umoja to expand the program to their schools.
Today, the School Feeding Program operates in 21 primary schools across Kisumu, reaching 5,000 students. The program provides consistent, nutritious meals that keep children in school and ready to learn.
Community Impact
School Feeding Program is more than just a lunch program; it's a cornerstone of recent educational success in these schools. The program has led to remarkable improvements in school enrollment and academic performance, particularly in schools that previously struggled. By ensuring that students receive a reliable lunchtime meal, Umoja is helping to create a stable learning environment where children can thrive.
Parents in the community have also felt the positive impact. The program alleviates the pressure on parents to leave their jobs—often daily wage labor or small businesses—to prepare lunch for their children. This allows them to focus on their work, knowing their children are well-cared for at school.
Sustained Success
Over the past 16 years, Umoja's School Feeding Program has grown steadily, adapting to the needs of the community and overcoming challenges that have derailed similar initiatives in the country. Its ongoing success is a testament to the commitment of Umoja and the continued support from our partners, ensuring that no child has to choose between going to school and going hungry.