By KPC Reporter
The Redeemed Gospel Church Oyugis is bringing new hope to vulnerable children and families in Homa Bay County through its K270 Project, run in partnership with Compassion International.
Launched in 2018 with just 200 children aged between three and eight years, the initiative now supports 354 boys and girls, providing education, spiritual nourishment, and life skills under the banner “Releasing children from poverty in Jesus’ name.”
According to Project Director Betsy Kapere, the programme promotes holistic child development.
“We not only care for the children but also support their caregivers through monthly training on parenting, child protection, and health care,” she said.
“Our goal is to nurture well-rounded children who can grow into responsible and self-reliant adults.”
Compassion International currently works with 16 churches across Homa Bay County — from Kindubay to Mfangano Island — helping children until the age of 22, when they are ready to live independently.
During school holidays, the children attend lessons and outdoor activities at the church centre, where they are taught confidence, values, and how to report abuse.
“Some of our children face neglect, physical or emotional abuse, and child labour,” said Kapere.
“We teach both children and caregivers how to recognise and report such cases.”
Incoming Nyanza South Region Bishop Reverend Vitalis Oduor praised the partnership, noting that it equips parents to better handle their children during holidays.
“We are training caregivers to understand and guide their children, keeping them safe from harmful influences,” he said.
Jane, one of the pupils, said children now know their rights, while John added that boys are learning to avoid child labour and crime.
Parent Rose Ann Shambi from Mikai said the project’s skills training has been life-changing: “I’ve learned to make soap, yoghurt, and mats — and it’s helping me support my family.”