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5 Charities Operating in Tanzania

5 Charities Operating in TanzaniaTanzania is acknowledged for its rich national parks like Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. However, beyond its scenic landscapes, many citizens face significant economic hardship. As populations increase, the poverty rates also increase. In 2011, about 12.3 million Tanzanians lived in vulnerable conditions. By 2018, that number rose to 14 million. Still, recent data reveal progress—Zanzibar, for instance, recorded a 4.7% drop in poverty from 30.4% in 2014–15 to 25.7% in 2019–20. Charitable organizations have played a vital role in building community resilience and expanding access to essential services.

5 Charities Operating in Tanzania

  1. Save the Children. A global humanitarian organization focused on protecting children’s rights and well-being. The charity has worked with the Tanzanian government for more than 100 years, first launching its programs in Zanzibar before expanding across the country. Its efforts prioritize nutrition services, educational access and child poverty reduction. In Tanzania, 27% of the population lacks adequate sanitation and housing, with 8% living in extreme poverty. Children represent a significant portion of this population, comprising 44.8% of those affected. Save the Children operates under three core goals: eliminating preventable child deaths, ensuring access to education and protecting children from violence. Since 2024, the program has enacted 122 policy reforms and responded to 112 emergencies.
  2. Plan International. Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organization that promotes health care, clean water access and child protection. Established in Tanzania in 1991, the organization now operates in eight regions and aims to eliminate child poverty by 2030 through policy reform and community empowerment. Plan International adheres to the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child, which affirms children’s right to security and care. Its long-term vision is to ensure all children, especially girls, have the opportunity to thrive.
  3. BAPS Charities. BAPS Charities provides essential services in health, education and nutrition. The BAPS clinic in Dar es Salaam is one of its most notable programs in Tanzania, offering free medical services to families. The clinic operates weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Services include lab work, treatment and food distribution. Children are given safe spaces and nourishment, such as water and snacks, contributing to a warm and welcoming environment.
  4. Zara Charity. Founded in 2009 by Zainab Ansell, Zara Charity is a nonprofit registered under the United Republic of Tanzania. It works to improve the lives of disadvantaged families through eco-tourism partnerships and educational support for women and orphans. Notable sponsors include Zita Tanzanian Wild Camps Ltd. and Tour Compass. Its key initiative is organizing volunteer cleanups on Mount Kilimanjaro to reduce environmental waste. Additionally, these activities provide residents, especially the underserved, with cleaner living conditions.
  5. Kupona Foundation. Kupona Foundation is a U.S.-based nonprofit that partners with the Comprehensive Community-Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT). The organization is dedicated to strengthening Tanzania’s health care systems. Kupona has raised $7 million to support medical treatment, training and infrastructure. Furthermore, with 87% of its funds directed to programming, the organization ensures financial accountability and sustainability. Kupona’s efforts help expand access to quality care while laying the foundation for long-term development.

Looking Ahead

Tanzania continues to make progress in reducing poverty, due to the efforts of local and international charitable organizations. These five charities exemplify how targeted interventions in health, education, environmental sustainability and child protection can transform communities. Indeed, as the nation pushes toward sustainable development, the work of these charities operating in Tanzania offers a roadmap for continued growth, resilience and hope.

– Janae Bayford

Janae is based in Centennial, CO, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Montenegro

Charities Operating in MontenegroA small, southeastern European country, Montenegro declared independence from Serbia on June 3, 2006. Native Montenegrins form only 41% of the population with Serbs, Bosnians, Albanians and Russians from neighboring countries forming the rest of the population. With a long Adriatic coastline boasting 72 km of beaches and well-preserved ancient towns, tourism remains a key industry, welcoming 2.1 million visitors in 2022. Other main sectors include steel, aluminium, agriculture and consumer goods. Despite the country’s success in various industries, poverty is a problem that five charities operating in Montenegro are attempting to address.

About Poverty in Montenegro

According to the 2023/2024 UN Human Development report, Montenegro retains its position as a country of very high human development for the seventh year in a row. Life expectancy, education and income have all seen significant growth, with the gross national income per capita increasing by 64.5% and the Human Development Index rising by 12.7% between 2003 and 2022. However, despite economic progress, income inequality and poverty persist ― particularly in northern and rural areas ― significantly impacting displaced persons, ethnic minorities and children in institutional care. As of 2022, 17.2% of Montenegro’s population live below the upper-middle-income poverty line of $6.85 per day. Children are particularly affected, with 28.4% at risk of poverty in 2022, a slight improvement from 30.5% in 2021.

To alleviate these issues related to poverty in Montenegro whilst meeting development goals, UNDP resident representative Ekaterina Paniklova stresses the importance of Montenegro focusing on sustainable development, social protection and promoting innovation. Charities play a crucial role in bridging the gap between development goals and vulnerable communities affected by poverty. Here are five charities operating in Montenegro aiming to support communities affected by poverty:

1. Pristanište Foundation

The first of the charities operating in Montenegro is The Pristanište Foundation. Founded in March 2022, The Pristanište Foundation is a volunteering community supporting Ukrainians and other displaced persons arriving in Montenegro. Its Sleep in Silence program provides free temporary accommodation in Budva, basic necessities, SIM cards and emergency financial assistance to groups seeking aid. The foundation has helped more than 1,800 individuals, including 426 children, and is the only house in Montenegro accepting persons with disabilities. Individuals aided by the foundation express feeling “as if [they] have been transported to another reality, which delights with incredible views, positive emotions, and sincere feelings.”

In addition to material aid, the program offers psychological support through consultations and group sessions, aimed at reducing stress and trauma, and promoting resilience. Led by volunteer professionals, including clinical psychologist and psychotherapist Anna Sergeeva, this initiative has supported nearly 200 individuals since its launch, and plans are currently underway to expand the service. By offering free accommodation, necessities and psychosocial support, the foundation not only addresses the immediate needs of displaced persons but also mitigates their risk of falling into poverty ― a reality many migrants face upon arrival in a new country.

2. Red Cross of Montenegro

Founded in 1875, the Red Cross of Montenegro is a voluntary humanitarian organization involved in disaster response, health care, social support and community development. It offers training and equipment for disaster preparedness, provides emergency aid, runs flood resilience programs in vulnerable areas like Zeta Municipality and maintains a tracing service to reunite families separated by disaster. 

The Red Cross Montenegro has been pivotal in supporting migrants, asylum seekers and refugees within the country. The organization provides them with food, clothing, hygiene kits, psychosocial care and help accessing health care through community centers near reception facilities, aiming to aid social and economic integration and prevent migrants falling into poverty. As of January 2023, the Red Cross of Montenegro directly supported 3,012 Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war, distributing 2,560 food parcels and hygiene kits and 1,580 sets of clothing, organizing 138 psychosocial support workshops and conducting 197 Montenegrin language classes.

Furthermore, the organization’s youth programs include academic support, peer-led education on topics like HIV/AIDS and intergenerational projects that foster community bonds. The organization also supports older adults and persons with disabilities through home care services and community programs.

Beyond ground-level activities, the Red Cross actively collaborates on national strategies around climate resilience and humanitarian innovation, aiming to integrate climate concerns into future disaster preparedness work. The organization’s Global Climate Resilience Program, designed to scale-up locally-led, climate-smart disaster risk reduction, is projected to reach 500 million people by 2027. These strategies are essential in Montenegro, where rural and low-income communities suffer the greatest impacts from floods, often exacerbating cycles of poverty.

3. FORS Montenegro

Founded in 2006, the Foundation for the Development of Northern Montenegro (FORS) works on regional development, environmental protection and civil society initiatives. Partnering with local authorities and institutions, it promotes environmental protection through sustainable agriculture, tourism and disaster risk reduction. 

One notable initiative that launched in April 2018 is Disaster do not know Borders, which aims to enhance disaster risk reduction capacities in Montenegro and Albania, with a particular focus on flood protection. The project, funded by the European Union through the Cross-Border Cooperation Program Montenegro-Albania 2014-2020, had a total budget of €483,538.35. Main activities within the project included equipment procurement, training emergency responders, updating databases on floods in the region of Shkodra Lake and running educational workshops for school children.

Over the two-year course of the initiative, more than 100 local protection and rescue personnel from Montenegro and Albania received training in flood response, swift water rescue, and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping. Educational initiatives engaged more than 1,000 primary and secondary students in workshops and drawing competitions focused on flood risks and disaster preparedness. Such outreach not only raises awareness, but empowers youth in economically disadvantaged regions where poor infrastructure and limited services make recovery from natural disasters more difficult. Concluding in April 2020, the initiative reached approximately 30,000 citizens. 

4. Riznica Mladosti

Riznica Mladosti, established in 2010, supports the only orphanage in Montenegro, Djeciji Dom Mladost in Bljela. While the orphanage receives government funding, the charity enhances educational outcomes and life skills for children with special needs who cannot attend regular schools. 

Working closely with the orphanage’s staff, the organization provides one-to-one sessions with the children that promote academic development and emotional well-being. This project has seen not only a significant improvement in academic results for the children, but also improved self-sufficiency and ability to access employment when they leave the orphanage. In addition to education, activities like community bazaars help the children develop social and interpersonal skills. Significant improvements in academic results and emotional well-being are critical components in breaking the cycle of poverty for children growing up without stable family support or access to mainstream educational opportunities.

5. World Vision Montenegro

Originally founded as a relief project in 1998 following the Kosovo conflict, World Vision has evolved into a wide-reaching development agency in Montenegro, attending to the physical, social, psychological and financial needs of the poorest sectors of the Yugoslav population. Its primary goal is the sustained well-being of vulnerable children, addressing interconnected challenges like education, clean water, nutrition, disaster management, gender equality and social inclusion and urbanization. By investing in nutrition, clean water and financial inclusion, World Vision directly addresses some root causes of poverty.

As of 2023, an estimated 113,800 individuals have been reached worldwide through World Vision innovation projects. AgroInvest, a partner of World Vision, had loaned approximately $23,921,687 to 12,646 individuals as of 2011, allowing for radically increased milk production, cattle breeding and greenhouse maintenance to alleviate food insecurity. These loans enable low-income families to achieve self-sufficiency, especially in underdeveloped rural areas. Both World Vision and AgroInvest remain highly active in Montenegro to this day. 

Looking Forward

Despite its impressive development, Montenegro continues to face challenges such as regional inequality, social exclusion and vulnerability to changing weather patterns. These five charities operating in Montenegro  ― ranging from long-established institutions to grassroots initiatives ― offer targeted, community-based support that directly combats poverty, promotes inclusion and strengthens long-term resilience. As the country continues to grow, charities operating in Montenegro offer hope and practical support for a more equitable, inclusive and sustainable future. 

– Holly McArthur

Holly is based in Somerset, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Sacha Baron Cohen Donates $500K to Charities in Sudan

Sacha Baron Cohen Donates $500K to Charities in SudanSacha Baron Cohen, born in 1970s London, is a British comedian and actor best known for his politically incorrect social satire. His career gained widespread attention in 2006 with the release of Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. Raised in a devout Jewish household, Cohen often speaks about the importance of Jewish values such as justice, charity and loving-kindness. Judaism teaches that people should treat wealth as a divine gift and use it to help those in need. Cohen reflected these values by donating $500,000 to charities operating in Sudan.

The Crisis in Sudan

The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has persisted for two years. It has forced millions to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighboring countries such as Ethiopia, South Sudan and Chad. Furthermore, ongoing violence has disrupted humanitarian efforts and worsened food insecurity. According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, about 755,000 people now face famine-like conditions. In Darfur, local reports cite ethnic targeting by armed groups. In March 2025, the Sudanese army regained control of the presidential palace in Khartoum, a development that observers hope will shift the trajectory of the conflict.

IRC and Save the Children

In October 2024, Cohen pledged $500,000 to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Save the Children USA. Both organizations provide essential services in Sudan and the surrounding regions. They focus on nutrition, water, sanitation, health care and child protection.

In 2023, Save the Children reached more than 2.4 million people in Sudan. The organization delivered integrated support across food security, education, health care and hygiene. Additionally, the IRC serves displaced populations within Sudan and along its borders, helping families rebuild amid war and hunger. Nearly 500 children have died due to the closure of critical nutrition centers. Cohen’s contribution strengthens these organizations’ capacity to expand their reach.

Cohen’s Statement

In Sacha’s words: “Right now, there are 25.6 million people experiencing hunger in Sudan, a country which is swiftly moving toward the worst famine seen in decades, yet this crisis is receiving alarmingly little attention. This contribution is a small step toward addressing the immense needs in Sudan. I’m pleased to continue to support the IRC and Save the Children, who are delivering essential nutrition, water, sanitation and health services to those most in need, both within Sudan and in neighbouring countries where people are seeking refuge. The Sudanese people urgently need our help and must not be forgotten. I call on friends, colleagues and the general public to join me in contributing whatever you can to this life-saving work. Please consider donating to the IRC and Save the Children.”

Response from IRC Leadership

In response, David Miliband, President and CEO of the IRC, said: “We are deeply grateful to Sacha for this donation and raising awareness about Sudan’s humanitarian crisis. The funds will support the IRC’s lifesaving work in nutrition, water and sanitation and protection for displaced people. Eighteen months of warfare has devastated homes, infrastructure and livelihoods, making Sudan the world’s largest displacement and most severe hunger crisis—yet only half the needed aid has been received. As the disaster continues to spill over into neighboring countries like Chad and South Sudan, the world’s neglect is costing lives. Now, more than ever, influential voices like Sacha’s are crucial to prevent further destruction and loss.”

A Record of Global Giving

Cohen’s support for charities in Sudan follows years of philanthropic engagement. His past contributions funded vaccinations for 287,000 children in Syria, built a maternity hospital in Yemen and supported relief programs in Iraq and Somalia. He also co-founded Stop Hate for Profit, a coalition urging accountability from social media platforms. Cambridge University and the Martin Luther King Center in Atlanta recognized Cohen’s academic work, which explored Black and Jewish cooperation during the U.S. civil rights movement.

Looking Ahead

While conflict continues to displace and endanger millions in Sudan, targeted support from both individuals and institutions could expand access to vital services. Cohen’s donation to charities in Sudan helps reinforce the work of humanitarian organizations and draws global attention to a worsening crisis. As agencies call for broader international support, contributions—both financial and vocal—remain essential in addressing urgent needs and preventing further loss of life.

– Dania Kerim

Dania is based in London and focuses on Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities in South Africa

Charities in South AfricaSouth Africa has faced numerous hardships throughout the years, including violence, famine and widespread poverty, leaving millions in need of support. According to the World Bank, more than half of the population lives in poverty when measured by the $5.50 purchasing power parity (PPP) standard. Further, although apartheid officially ended three decades ago, much of the country’s wealth remains concentrated in the hands of the former ruling white minority. Despite these ongoing challenges, many individuals and organizations continue working tirelessly to address these disparities and support those most in need. Here are five charities actively working in South Africa to provide vital assistance.

Mothers2Mothers

Mothers2Mothers gives mothers who have contracted HIV the opportunity to help their community and others by providing them with jobs as healthcare workers and mentors. It intends to cut down on the gender wage gap and, at the same time, provide essential and much-needed health care to the population of South Africa. Established in 2001, the nonprofit has employed more than 12,000 women living with HIV. In addition to providing employment, the organization is dedicated to slowing the spread of HIV.

ActionAid

ActionAid is a social justice organization that aims to uplift those in poverty and ensure that those who might not have a voice still have equality. As part of a global network operating in 45 countries, including South Africa, ActionAid supports rural communities through development initiatives and advocacy for equal rights. Rather than working in isolation, the organization collaborates with local communities and smaller organizations to promote equality and empower people across South Africa.

Keep The Dream196

Keep The Dream196 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women, children and families in South Africa break the cycle of poverty by equipping them with essential skills and resources to improve their lives. Recognizing the increasing challenges faced by children, such as limited access to education, rising HIV rates and teenage pregnancy, Keep The Dream196 stepped in to address these critical issues and create lasting, positive change in communities.

The organization has successfully kept the children involved in its program out of gangs and away from drug and alcohol abuse, along with reducing the teenage pregnancy rate from 13% to 0.07%.

Feed the Nation

Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in South Africa, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Feed the Nation rose to meet this challenge by delivering essential food and hygiene products to some of the country’s most vulnerable communities. In April 2020, it partnered with organizations like Pick n Pay School Club and Africa Tikkun, successfully distributing 650 tonnes of food. It has provided more than 39 million meals to families and communities in need across South Africa.

Qhubeka

Many communities in South Africa face a lack of reliable transportation, with about eight million children in South Africa walking to school every day. This transportation barrier places a heavy burden on families and individuals, contributing to the cycle of poverty. Qhubeka addresses this issue by offering children the opportunity to earn bikes after completing a safety and training program. The impact is particularly notable among children, as school attendance rates improve significantly when they have easier access to and from school.

Conclusion

These charities are helping to break the cycle of poverty in South Africa by providing essential resources, empowering communities, and fostering lasting change for vulnerable populations.

– Collier Simpson

Collier is based in Savannah, GA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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International Charities Working To Fight Poverty in Ethiopia

Poverty in EthiopiaNearly 70% of people live in multidimensional poverty in Ethiopia, with rural areas the worst affected. Multidimensional poverty encompasses various aspects of life, from food and job insecurity to poor health and living conditions. As such, Ethiopians suffer a crisis of circular poverty, with generations experiencing the same lack of access to clean water, education and life-saving health care. Due to the complexity of poverty in Ethiopia, international support and humanitarian aid play a vital role. Here are three of the international organizations working to make lasting change.

Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps has supported communities across Ethiopia since 2004. Its mission is to provide immediate, long-lasting support that will impact this generation and all those to come. Within 20 years, the organization has helped more than four million people in Ethiopia. Mercy Corps focuses its support on vulnerable communities, particularly marginalized Ethiopians such as women and those living in conflict-affected areas.

For many, support comes in the form of business skills acquisition, help in fostering market relationships and professional mentorship. Training and support like this are given to aid the building of stable economic opportunities throughout the country, allowing individuals to secure reliable employment and income streams.

Immediate support also plays a key role in Mercy Corps’ support, particularly in ensuring access to food for many Ethiopians. While some of its programs deliver agricultural support and climate-resistant seeds to rural areas, others provide immediate relief to Ethiopia’s impoverished people. This includes food deliveries and cash aid to allow families to purchase household necessities and ensure they have access to food.

Tikkun Olam Ventures (TOV)

TOV started with a two-year pilot program in Ethiopia, building upon decades of existing humanitarian work done by The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) across the country. The initiative aims to provide innovative Israeli technology to those still reliant on traditional farming methods and break the cycle of poverty in communities. Since then, tomatoes, onions and hot peppers have been grown using drip irrigation systems, fertilizers and hybrid seeds using this vital technology.

It’s estimated that two-thirds of those living in extreme poverty worldwide make their livelihoods from farming. This global reality is particularly staggering in Ethiopia, where agriculture is the largest economic sector, contributing 43% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Despite its importance, many farmers, especially smallholder and family farmers, remain trapped in a cycle of poverty, relying heavily on their crops for both income and sustenance.

To ensure that farmers can continue improving crop yields and ensure food and income security, TOV has used funding from an Ethiopian bank to purchase technology, seeds and technical support. When loans are repaid, the money returns to the loan fund, allowing more farmers to receive the benefits of Israeli technology.

For-Ethiopia

For-Ethiopia aims to reduce poverty in Ethiopia through education and health services. It believes that real change begins with small developmental projects focused on the community and its residents. The organization’s support includes providing medical equipment and training to health centers and health posts to ensure that everyone has access to clean, sterile environments and experienced health care workers.

A key priority of its aid is responding directly to community needs. For example, when health care workers requested fridges, For-Ethiopia ensured they received them. For-Ethiopia believes ending poverty in Ethiopia begins with access to education and health care, including clean, sanitary water.

Just as it supports health care facilities with essential equipment, it also supplies schools with resources such as books, bathrooms with handwashing stations and more. It credits these efforts with a more than 20% increase in girls’ school enrollment.

For-Ethiopia is currently running the Women and Children First campaign, which focuses on reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the country.

Conclusion

Organizations like Mercy Corps, TOV, and For-Ethiopia are making a significant impact in Ethiopia by addressing poverty through agriculture, education, and health care. Their work demonstrates that lasting change is achievable with global support and community-driven solutions.

– Macy Hall

Macy is based in Dover, Kent, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How Kids Club Kampala Is Helping Vulnerable Children in Uganda

Kids Club KampalaKids Club Kampala is an award-winning charity supporting vulnerable children in the slums of Kampala, the capital of Uganda. The organization aims to transform children’s lives by providing education and safeguarding their childhoods and futures. Uganda, one of the world’s most impoverished countries, has 42% of its population living in poverty, with 3.3 million people residing in slums as of 2012.

The slums are overcrowded, leading to poor sanitation and high crime rates. One in three adults has never received an education. Similarly, more than half of the population struggles to afford food, surviving just one meal daily. Kids Club Kampala currently supports 300,000 people across 12 slum communities in Kampala.

About Kids Club Kampala

Kids Club Kampala was founded in 2007 when two women visited Uganda for seven months and met a local who shared his struggles growing up in a challenging environment. Inspired by his story, the three joined forces, gathered volunteers and launched a charity to improve living conditions in Uganda’s slums.

Kids Club Kampala supports both children and their immediate families. The organization aims to transform children’s lives and lift their communities from poverty. It focuses on helping children aged 3 to 18 living in the slums through four key programs: community outreach, protecting, educating and skilling.

Community Outreach

Kids Club Kampala’s Community Outreach program efforts continue to make a significant impact, engaging children and youth in meaningful programs. In 2024, a total of 64 boys regularly participated in the initiative’s football project, benefiting from field training sessions that foster teamwork and discipline.

Additionally, 696 vulnerable girls have received crucial support through counseling sessions, providing them with guidance and emotional well-being. Every Saturday, 861 children actively join the charity’s Kids Clubs, creating a safe and enriching learning and social interaction space. To address period poverty, it has distributed 2,386 menstrual products to girls who would otherwise lack access, ensuring their dignity and uninterrupted education.

Child Protection

Further, the foundation’s Child Protection program safeguards children in imminent danger, ensuring their safety and well-being. In 2024, it rescued nine children from abuse and abandonment, while its community safeguarding officers responded to 14 child protection cases.

On top of that, the initiative, in efforts to provide stable and nurturing environments, has reintegrated 14 children into families through kinship care. Currently, 84 children are receiving love, care and protection at the Ewafe Project home, offering them a secure and supportive environment.

Access to Education

Kids Club Kampala’s Access to Education program is committed to providing high-quality education to children through sponsorship opportunities. In 2024, 17 new children were enrolled in the Child Sponsorship Project, bringing the total number of sponsored children to 176.

Additionally, 90 children have consistently attended its Encouraging Education Project every day over the past year, ensuring they receive the academic support they need. To further support their well-being, these 90 children have also benefited from daily nutritious meals at the charity’s education center, helping them stay healthy and focused on their studies.

The Skilling Program

Kids Club Kampala’s Skilling program equips individuals with essential business and professional skills to create sustainable livelihoods. Through the program, 12 young people enrolled in a carpentry training course in 2024, gaining practical expertise to secure future employment.

Additionally, 79 students have received business training and support, empowering them with the knowledge to start and manage their own ventures. To further enhance economic opportunities, the program provided training in tailoring and knitting for 132 individuals, enabling them to develop marketable skills that contributed to their financial independence and overall family stability.

Conclusion

Through community outreach, child protection, education access and family strengthening, Kids Club Kampala continues transforming lives. Indeed, the organization empowers vulnerable children and families by providing essential support, education and skill development, fostering a brighter and more sustainable future.

– Jennifer Cermak

Jennifer is based in York, Ontario, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Footprints Family Is Transforming Lives in Shimba Hills

Footprints FamilyIn Shimba Hills, Kenya, many challenges keep families from meeting basic needs. With a population of more than 866,000, Kwale County is Kenya’s 27 most populated counties. Kwale is also one of Kenya’s most impoverished and marginalized counties.

Primarily, the youth of Shimba Hills face a lack of quality schools, limited access to health care and essential medications, poor infrastructure and inhumane living conditions. The primary catalyst of these issues is the lack of government support. Both at the local and national level, there is little to no federal interference to resolve these life-threatening matters.

Poverty in Kenya

The overall poverty rate of Kenya in 2022 was 39.8%, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. In Kwale County, the child poverty headcount rate is 51.1%, with almost 1,000 children below the poverty line.

Rural areas are also hit at an unequal rate compared to urban areas, forcing them into a more difficult cycle of poverty. In 2022, the hardcore poverty rate in rural Kenya was 9.3%, affecting around 3.2 million people. Along with being hit at an unfair rate, rural areas such as Shimba Hills also show weaker recovery from poverty rates yearly, especially post-COVID-19.

Footprints Family

In 2007, Kerry Watson visited East Africa. Her trip turned from simply volunteering to a widespread child poverty activism project in Kwale County. That same year, Watson bought land and created the U.K.-based charity Footprints Family. After opening its doors in 2010, Footprints Family has profoundly helped more than 200 people in the Shimba Hills community.

After nearly two decades, Footprints Family has achieved numerous milestones in supporting Kwale’s most vulnerable children. Hundreds have benefited from free education programs, secure on-site accommodations during school terms and improved access to education through dedicated transportation services.

Along with nurturing relationships among families facing unfortunate situations, Footprints Family offers three programs to target specific problems at home.

Mama Kerry’s Home-Based Care

Introduced in 2019, Mama Kerry’s Home-Based Care program offers essential support tailored to the unique dynamics of children’s families. In partnership with the Children’s Welfare Society of Kenya, the program conducts assessments and provides financial assistance and food packages to those in need. As a result, most children are successfully reintegrated into kinship care, with regular follow-up visits ensuring continued support.

The Mkwakwani Stepping Stone Youth Program

The Mkwakwani Steppingstone Youth Program supports children in their transition to adulthood, equipping them for a brighter future. Upon completing formal education, participants receive continued assistance through counseling, educational programs, cyberlearning centers and more.

The Early Years Academy

In 2021, the nonprofit introduced Early Years Academy to address education and learning poverty by creating a school accessible to children ages 4-11. The staff consists of trained educators and transportation is provided to and from schools in surrounding villages. The extensive grounds allow each child to learn hands-on and make the most of the nature surrounding them.

Conclusion

Footprints Family remains a lifeline for vulnerable children in Shimba Hills, filling the gaps left by inadequate government support. Through education, family reintegration and youth empowerment programs, the organization transforms lives and creates lasting change. With continued support and donations, Footprints Family can expand its impact and provide a brighter future for the children of Kwale County.

– Rachael Wexler

Rachael is based in Chicago IL, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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5 Charities Operating in Aruba

Charities Operating in ArubaAruba is a well known and beautiful island in the Caribbean. Its population is only around 125,000. However, it is estimated around 1.5 million people visit the island each year, that was until a global pandemic hit. COVID-19 devastated Aruba’s economy and is still in recovery from it, as the country relies heavily on tourism for income. The good news is, while the country is still recovering, there are many charities on the island that can help with issues such as food insecurity, health and education. Here is a list of five charities operating in Aruba right now.

5 Charities Operating in Aruba

  1. HIAS – HIAS is an organization which opened its Aruba office in 2019, and works to create programs to help the island’s most vulnerable groups, such as refugees fleeing violence and poverty, single women, the elderly and those with disabilities and medical conditions. HIAS has implemented economic inclusion programs that have helped hundreds of people living in Aruba by providing food vouchers, school supplies as well as medical and hygiene kits to those living in poverty on the island. Through all its programs, it has been able to give direct support to 3,005 in Aruba in 2023.
  2. Kids Inc. Aruba – This organization was founded in 2006 and offers classes for kids in Aruba with newer educational practices so they have a leg up for modern day and future opportunities. It focuses mainly on creating a new generation of hard working and smart entrepreneurs and teaching kids financial literacy. It offers multiple programs which advocate for smart spending and have set many children up for financial responsibility. 
  3. Red Cross Aruba – The Red Cross in Aruba helps with first aid and relief during natural disasters, and also has a long term impact through its CPR, AED and first aid training. It also holds events to help the impoverished on the island. Events like their “drive by for back 2 school” aim to provide school supplies for children in need. It also holds a monthly charity bazaar, selling donated items to raise money to provide food for families in need. 
  4. Kiwanis Club of Aruba – This club, founded in 1964, is dedicated to providing Aruba with necessary community service with a specific focus on children. It holds events and galas to fundraise and then use the money to hold different events for those in need. The club’s annual back to school drive donates clothes and school materials to children in primary school. Furthermore, it offers them a fun experience or activity on the day. Its members also give free services such as dental care to children who would otherwise go without it. The community as a whole averages 7,300,000 hours of community service a year and each member reaches about 100 kids.
  5. Micky’s Foundation – Micky’s Foundation started in 2014 after a family in need recognized the lack of treatment for specialized pediatric therapy in Aruba. They started the foundation which has been able to provide free intensive pediatric therapy to those in need. The foundation not only offers therapy but also focuses on educating those of pediatric therapy and why it is necessary, as well as lobbying to change the systems in place that withhold it from those in need. Since its beginning, the Foundation has been able to help 203 kids with more than 22,500 hours of free therapy. 

Looking Ahead

These five charities operating in Aruba give lasting services and contributions to those on the island. They have been able to help countless people, and continue to do so in their work. These charities are operating to improve Aruba. They do so through their positive missions and goals to improve the health of the island and its people

– Cheyenne Weller

Cheyenne is based in Boston, MA, USA  and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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5 Charities Operating in Senegal

Charities Operating in Senegal
Senegal, the westernmost country in Africa, is a country of rich history and culture, however many of the Senegalese people continue to face the challenges of poverty despite its economic progress in recent years. As of 2024, nearly 36% of the population lived below the national poverty line, with rural communities being the most vulnerable. Food insecurity is one of the most common issues, and malnutrition is a large concern, with 66% “of children under five years old suffering from anemia,” a condition that impacts how children grow and develop. While the country has made strides in health care there were an estimated 44,000 citizens living with HIV in 2023. Despite these difficulties, Senegal is full of resilience with many charities operating in Senegal to provide for those in need. Below are five charities operating in Senegal. They are dedicated to uplifting communities and making a difference in Senegal.

Food for Life Senegal

Food for Life Senegal is an international charity that focuses on combating hunger and malnutrition. This organization is dedicated to providing meals to the affected communities with the hope that it will lead to healthier living. Aside from combating hunger, the organization also looks to further health care and educational resources. Food for Life Senegal sees how all of these areas are interconnected, so by focusing on all three they are able to create a more lasting impact on selected communities.

The organization also identifies the most in need communities when looking for areas to assist. Its work not only relieves immediate hunger, but also teaches able community members agricultural practices so the community can become more sustainable.

Caritas Internationalis

Caritas Internationalis has had a large role in humanitarian aid since it received recognition in 1966. This global Catholic relief organization provides emergency assistance and long-term development programs to support communities. Their main focus is poverty reduction in the eyes of emergency assistance when addressing different public health crises, with most of their focus going to people living with HIV/AIDS.

Caritas Internationalis helps to empower these extremely poverty-stricken communities in Senegal by providing health care. Whether it be short or long term, this organization is one of the top providers in health care for developing countries.

ADIFS

Empowering women is the overall theme of the Association pour le Développement Intégral de la Femme au Sénégal (ADIFS). This organization looks to better the lives of Senegalese women by offering education, vocational training and essential health services. This helps the women of Senegal become more independent, as well as becoming better equipped to provide for themselves or their family.

In addition to skill training, this organization helps to create campaigns that raise awareness for issues like “gender-based violence, female genital mutilation, and early marriage.” The combined areas help to empower the women of Senegal by providing them with the tools, freedom and support necessary to succeed.

Plan International Senegal

Plan International is a global organization that fights poverty and inequality through targeted interventions for children. In Senegal, the organization focuses on providing educational opportunities for children as well as improving access to health care and other important services. The belief behind this strategy is that children are the path to creating a greater future.

Sahel École Sans Frontières

Sahel École Sans Frontières (SESF) is a grassroots organization committed to improving access to quality education in the more rural areas of Senegal. Founded in 2007, SESF has played an important role in building schools and creating educational opportunities for the underserved communities of Senegal. Helping create the infrastructure needed is one of the largest challenges that Senegal faces in terms of quality education.

Looking Ahead

These five charities operating in Senegal are committed to helping the country of Senegal create the path to becoming a more sustainable nation. Whether it is through food assistance, healthcare, education or women’s empowerment, the efforts they make are shaping a more sustainable future. By supporting the work of these charities, people worldwide can contribute to meaningful change for the Senegalese people.

– Joey Picolli

Joey is based in Boulder, CO, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Students Against Global Poverty

Students Against Global PovertyIn the fight against global poverty, students are a vital and often overlooked aspect of charity initiatives. Students are working with charities alongside their academics to help those most in need through fundraising and volunteering efforts. In an interview with The Borgen Project, Charlotte, a university student working with MEDLIFE, stressed the importance of student participation in fighting poverty and assisting with development projects.

MEDLIFE

MEDLIFE is a global charity that helps to develop low-income communities by improving health care and education. In its efforts to achieve a world free of poverty, MEDLIFE adopts a community-focused approach and offers sustainable solutions to provide long-term aid and improvement. The nonprofit works with local staff and citizens to provide “culturally sensitive” aid and development programs to underserved communities.

Through collaborating with local doctors, the charity ensures that development projects will continue to benefit the community for a longer period rather than solely providing immediate relief. By August 2023, MEDLIFE had more than 30,000 volunteers and had established more than 600 community projects. MEDLIFE focuses on preventative health care through education.

By providing education on key health issues, the organization aims to prevent health care disasters that particularly impact those living in poverty. With a woman dying every two minutes due to childbirth or pregnancy, MEDLIFE’s Mobile Clinics offer specialized educational workshops on women’s reproductive health in efforts to prevent key issues, such as breast or cervical cancers).

Students Working With MEDLIFE

MEDLIFE offers students the chance to directly impact efforts seeking to alleviate the pressures of global poverty. Students can start MEDLIFE societies at a college/university to assist with fundraising efforts and organize volunteer trips to help with specific community projects. In 2024, Students at University College London (UCL) participated in a volunteer trip to Lima, Peru, to directly contribute to the operation of community developments.

In an interview with The Borgen Project, Charlotte reflected on how students working in Lima witnessed people face challenges accessing health care and resources. The students helped to establish and maintain Mobile Clinics specializing in general medicine, dental, obstetrics and gynecology, pharmacy, hygiene and education. Other initiatives also involved assisting with community transformation, such as building parks and stairs. The UCL Society is organizing plans for its next trip; destinations could include Costa Rica or Peru.

When asked whether students are recognized for their roles in fighting global poverty, Charlotte explained that “students often don’t receive enough recognition for their contributions.” Regarding how recognition helps raise awareness, Charlotte commented that “by shining a light on student contributions, we not only validate their efforts but also encourage a culture of social responsibility among peers.”

MEDLIFE is open not only to medical students but also to those studying a wide range of disciplines. When asked about the benefits of this, Charlotte explained how a diverse group of students is extremely useful to the charity. For example, an engineering student can assist in the structured development of the communities and a business or economics student may lead fundraising.

Conclusion

Globally, students work with a wide range of charities to assist in the fight against global poverty. Without help from students, charities could lack the appropriate funds to provide adequate aid to those in need. They are not only providing thousands in fundraising but also have the time and skills to deliver hands-on support.

– Ellie Western

Ellie is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels