CLCL’S FEEDING PROGRAM: A LIFELINE TO VULENABLE CHILDREN IN MERU COUNTY
THE FEEDING PROGRAM'S START
In 2022, as students in Kenya returned to school after the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, CLCL initiated a vital feeding program aimed at supporting some of the most vulnerable children in Meru County. Recognizing the significant barriers these children faced, CLCL chose four primary schools in the region to receive assistance, ensuring that students could focus on their education rather than their next meal when schools are in session.
INNOVATIVE PROGRAM, IMPACTFUL RESULTS
This innovative program provides nutritious food to selected schools each trimester, creating a supportive environment that encourages learning. The impact has been impressive: absenteeism rates have fallen, while test scores and enrollment have increased significantly. Initially, the program served approximately 600 children, but that number has nearly doubled, with over 1,000 children now benefiting from this essential service.
AN ASSURED MEAL = COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION
One headteacher from a supported school shared their firsthand experience: “Before we had the feeding program, if pupils were sent home for tuition fees or books, they would come back to school after two days or more. But with the feeding program now, pupils report back to school before noon, even without tuition money or books, simply because there is an assurance of a meal.” This statement highlights the profound effect of the program; not only does it address immediate hunger, but it also enhances students’ commitment to their education.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
The feeding program has also energized parents in the community, who are enthusiastic about the initiative. Many have stepped up to contribute by sending food from their own gardens to supplement the meals provided by CLCL, showcasing a strong community spirit and shared commitment to the children’s future. The availability of a feeding program at one of the schools enabled the government to donate a modern kitchen, demonstrating how this initiative can attract other stakeholders. Schools have also introduced kitchen gardens that provide vegetables to be included in the meals.
HELP US CONTINUE TO CHANGE LIVES
To continue this important work and make sure no child goes hungry in school, we invite you to support CLCL’s feeding program. We must raise over $10,000 annually to sustain this important initiative. Together, we can fill children’s stomachs, helping them focus on filling their minds.