Pamoja New Heart Foundation
Continuing our commitment to education, ELC Bristol is a proud supporter of the Pamoja New Heart Foundation in Malindi, Kenya.
Julia Steiner, a long-term friend and partner of ELC was one of the 3 original founders/creators of the Foundation. Pamoja New Heart (originally New Heart) was opened as a primary boarding school in August 2018 with a total of 20 children living in as boarders and 5 children being supported to attend the local Mkaomoto primary school. However, after some time, PNH realised that the local young people and adults also desperately needed more assistance with education and to learn a trade. The conclusion was to put all the children (now numbering 38!) into the local primary school with full support from PNH - including fees, uniforms, school materials, and a breakfast before school, followed by a cooked lunch.
The school building became "The PNH Education Centre" for local villagers. In addition to activities for the school children, courses are currently given in computing (10 laptops) and machine sewing for the ladies. This gives the villagers the opportunity to make an income from what they produce.
European volunteers regularly come to PNH, which greatly enriches the life of both the volunteers and the local children/adults.
The next phase is to start courses in beauty and haircare - which is always much in demand in Kenya. Again, creating the opportunity for local people to become financially independent.
If you would like any further information on either the PNH Foundation or becoming a Volunteer, please contact Julia Steiner on: juliasteiner@bluewin.ch
Please see the Facebook page here.
