KENYA – For families living in the vast Mathare slums of Nairobi, Kenya, life has never been easy. Over half a million people inhabit the flimsy, tin-roofed housing in this densely packed community. But what had been difficult became truly impossible last spring, when the region was pounded with heavy rains that went on for days—leading to severe flooding after an upstream dam burst. This deluge swept away the homes and livelihoods of over 3,000 people.
“When the floods happened, we lost everything,” explained Mary, a single mother of two. In the aftermath of the disaster, she faced unimaginable hardship as she struggled to provide for her children. “Our home was washed away and completely destroyed. We had no food or clean water. I did not know how we were going to survive.”
“Our home was washed away and completely destroyed. We had no food or clean water. I did not know how we were going to survive.”
-Mary, Single Mother of 2 & Flood Victim
But through Operation Blessing, you stepped in with essentials to help people during this hard time. Your care and generosity made it possible for us to provide rice, beans, and canned goods to ensure nutritious meals. The mosquito netting you supplied helped prevent the disease that can run rampant after such a disaster, and blankets kept the survivors warm. The solar-powered lights you sent have meant greater safety and security in the community. And jerrycans made it possible for families to collect and store water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation when their water source was compromised.
“I am so grateful to Operation Blessing Kenya,” Mary said with heartfelt appreciation. “The food they provided was a blessing. It meant my children did not have to go to bed hungry anymore. We had clean water to drink, and for the first time since the floods, I felt a sense of hope.”
Mary and her children were able to stay with a friend, so they had a roof over their heads. And they found hope amid devastation thanks to your timely intervention.
For Mary, the aid was a lifeline. “Now I can provide for my children again, and we are slowly recovering from the disaster. I will always be thankful for your support.”
Because of your love and care, Mary and 500 other families have found a path to recovery and a renewed sense of hope for the future.
“My children can now eat and sleep and are back in school,” Mary added with a smile. “The future looks bright, and I have hope again.”
