What can you get for less than 70p per day?

Not a lot you may reply. But for this lowly sum it is possible to sponsor a child's education in Kenya.

Asterias Youth Development Officer, Rachel Boyle, working in partnership with our Kenyan Representative Ann Muli and the Management Team of Karai Home and School, has put together a package that will make a vast difference to children in Kenya.

Karai Home and School was formerly known as Sugoi Children's Home situated in Eldoret, Kenya. Founded 10 years ago it had 30 children and consisted of a primary school, dormitories and a kitchen. In 2007 there were tribal clashes in Western Kenya particularly in Eldoret. As a consequence the children's home was destroyed leaving many children homeless. These children found refuge in a local Presbyterian Church and lived in tents within the church grounds for 8 months. In 2008 under the auspices of the Outreach Foundation of the PC (US) and a German Lutheran Church a home was established for these children, in Karai.

The facility is currently caring for 162 children and young people, many of whom were traumatised by the events during the civil unrest in 2007. Many are orphans or street children, some are from one parent families. The school had limited classroom facilities but Asterias funded and built 4 additional classrooms in 2009. These are being used as a Vocational School to prepare students for jobs such as carpentry, masonry and tailoring.

How does Child Sponsorship work?

Asterias child sponsorship costs just £20 per month which is less than 70p per day. The whole £20 goes to the children of Karai to contribute towards schooling, daily meals and medical fees.

Asterias as an organisation will cover the cost of administration fees, ensuring that all of your £20 reaches the children. In return you will receive a photograph of your child and information about them including their date of birth, interests and ambitions. You will receive an updated photograph and a letter from your sponsored child twice a year. You may also reply in writing to your child. All photos and letters will be scanned and emailed between Kenya and Northern Ireland in order to keep administration costs to a minimum and to ensure that they arrive quickly and safely.

If you wish, additional money gift donations can be made at Christmas time to The Asterias Organisation, who will ensure that your child benefits from this by receiving a Christmas gift. Methods of payment include cash, cheque or standing order and can be made on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis.

For more information, please email us at info@asterias.org