Deep within informal settlements (slums), many children are forced to take part in prostitution for different reasons, mostly as a result of abject poverty. Surrounded by a world of overcrowding, crime and apathy, young girls are at particular risk.

The girls are usually daughters of poorly educated single mothers who are desperately struggling to make ends meet. Many of the girls are sexually abused by the time they turn eight which puts them at higher risk of entering commercial sex work as they get older.

Some girls as young as 10 years old are breadwinners for their ailing parents or orphaned siblings. In other cases, the teenage girls will exchange sex for money to buy sanitary towels (hygiene products), toiletries or treats. Many times they are not aware of the risks involved, including contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, or about getting pregnant.

These are young innocent children being exploited and abused. But there is hope, even if for one child at a time.

ABC stands for Art, Bible and Communication (reading assistance). The children enjoy expressing themselves through art, building their self-esteem through Bible stories and improving their reading skills in our safe fun space. A healthy self-esteem goes a long way in preventing sexual exploitation as they grow.

Due to extreme poverty, many girls will engage in “sex for money” to buy basic needs like sanitary towels (hygiene products). Since May 2012, we have provided the girls with a pack of sanitary towels every month to curb this exploitation. We also invite guests to speak encouragement and hope into their lives.

Through the ABC and Freedom 40 programs, we are able to identify girls who are most vulnerable or already being exploited and enroll them in our 29:11 Scholarship Program for an opportunity to attend boarding schools – safe places where they can receive a good education, a most effective way to break out of poverty and prostitution.

HEART = Healing and Restoration Therapy. This is a safe haven for the girls to heal from trauma and receive restorative care where they can be loved, cherished and free to be kids again. Activities include art, dance and movement therapy, counseling, talks from survivors, crafts, life skills, drama, Bible lessons, games and outings.

Over the years, we have had the amazing privilege of partnering with several individuals and organizations in this crucial work. Here are some of our long time partners, to name a few:

Nairobi Chapel

Sowing Seeds of Joy

Kutoa Project

Lifewords Pavement Project

Freely in Hope