Amson School in Nairobi
Photos: 1) Marcy feeding students lunch 2) The slum of Nairobi where Amson School is located 3) Mark with the children at Amson 4) The students recieving instruction from their teacher 5) Young student - ready to learn!
A few blocks from the Nairobi River and the recently demolished housing (due to heavy flooding, along the river) is Amson School, in the heart of the Mathare slum.
Enos Mutokah started this school 11 years ago to serve families in this destitute area. Some of the same teachers and many new ones, are here teaching kids from pre school to 6th grade. We were honored to visit with them today. About 40% can afford the small tuition to attend but doors are open to those who can't. The government supports only a couple schools in this community; the rest are privately funded like this one.
In about 2400 square feet, 130-150 (sometimes up to 200) squeeze together to sit at small wooden benches, shoulder to shoulder (literally) to learn, lunch (and nap for the littlest ones). They play outside in the street for playtime.
For our visit, each class gave a short presentation for us as well as buckets of smiles and high fives.
JCSL is privileged to provide porridge for breakfast and a variety of bean, rice or local fare for lunch for students and staff. It was fun to assist the staff in serving lunch today. Before we left we had a great opportunity to pray with the entire staff. We were amazed at the grace God has poured out to these caring teachers and the courage, love and patience God gives them each and every day.
Thank you for your continued prayers for their health and the financial provision for the school.
Tuesday we fly to Bukura to visit the farm (where Esther lives) and Bukura Primary School (where we provide lunch), staying at Enos's new ministry house in the Bukura Village.
5 Comments
I so agree with Ginean comments. Sorry only 40% of the children can attend children. I bet their presentation was spot on
They must be very bright children. Good teachers. Love the expressions on their faces. That's for being God's ambassador for this trip. So proud we can proud lunch for them. I want to more. Praying. Blessings, Marilyn
I’m glad you four are there to see and digest. And to reach out. I’m glad these children are getting food, education and an opportunity for faith. I pray that these children and staff succeed. I want to know how I can help.
I am thankful we are able to do what we can for them. I pray that our ability is magnified 10 fold. The parents of these children and the children themselves would most likely be there without the food. They know the way out of poverty is education but what a blessing for us, as a church, to fill their little tummies as well. It's hard to hear the teacher when you stomach is growling. If only students in other countries around the world including ours were so anxious and grateful to go to school. I pray that Jesus covers everyone there with His love, grace and abundance.
Thank you Lord for all your provision for these dear children. I ask for a Holy Spirit covering and wisdom for our JCSL team and all those they minister to and come in contact with.