The Kenyan Children Foundation (KCF) is working in Kenya to assist in bettering the lives of some of Kenya’s orphaned and destitute children. Our basic philosophy is that we are in Kenya to assist – not to administer or manage. We do only the work we are specifically asked to do.
It is our belief that the assistance KCF offers should never jeopardize the independence of the Kenyan institution involved. When KCF finishes refurbishing or constructing an institution, that institution should be able to carry on well and independently without assistance from KCF.
Such independence is not an issue where KCF is simply refurbishing an already existing and viable institution. However, it becomes a major issue when building a new school or children’s home. While KCF does not wish to be involved in the administration or management of these institutions, we do want to know that they will be completely viable once they are constructed and functioning.
Because the school KCF built, Kawangware Academy, caters to street children and extremely poor children living in slums, the lack of money for school fees becomes a real issue. If school fees are not being paid in full and regularly, it will be difficult for the school to operate in a beneficial way. The KCF home, Meru Children’s Home, is even more vulnerable.
KCF has decided to address this issue of sustainability in a unique and profitable manner. KCF is undertaking the development of a eucalyptus tree farm. There are a number of such farms throughout Kenya (though not nearly enough!) all of which are immensely beneficial to the environment while at the same time producing an excellent profit to the owners.
 The KCF tree farm can be fully operational with an initial, one-time investment of $155,000. Because these are exceptionally fast-growing trees, the first harvest can be realized in five years time with a profit of $276,248 and again in another five years with a profit of $697,338.
If KCF is able to raise the $155,000 initial capital, it is reasonable to believe that Meru Children’s Home can be independent of KCF donor support after the first harvest. With the second and third harvests, the Home will have funds enough to expand and open its doors to more needy children.
KCF plans to purchase the land in August, drill the well in September or October, prepare the land the by the end of the year, install the irrigation system in January or February 2007 and plant the trees in March just before the long rains.
The KCF program of development/sustainability is the model all NGO’s are searching for. KCF has found it. We are now asking for your assistance in raising the $155,000 capital investment. If you have questions, we will be happy clarify. |
