83 kilometers south of Nairobi, in Masai country, is a small center called AIC Childcare Center (African Inland Church).  This center is unlike what we would call a childcare center in the US.  It is for physically challenged children in the district.  It was started almost 50 years ago and is now run by an enthusiastic man named Daniel.

Daniel at AIC Child Care Center

Daniel who came here as a boy with polio, and now is the director of the whole place for the past 15 years.  He is vibrant and full of energy, with a friendly smile and a big heart for these kids.

The center currently has around 80 kids.  There are 22 staff who work at the center as cooks, housemothers, teachers, physical therapists and some administrators.  They also have a homecare program with kids who have cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus who need the constant care of their mothers, though some can actually come to the center to live once they are strong. 

The center provides food; mentors, teachers, wheel chairs and accessories needed and care.  There are no fees for staying here.  If surgeries are required, the families are asked to help pay, but Kijabe Hospital’s Bethany Kids, another partner of LUA, turn away no children or families.   AIC Child Care Center also provides outreach to over 2,000 in nearby villages with physical therapy and support.

Water catchment system made possible by LUA’s communities.

With the help from donors and the local community LUA has assisted the child care center in installing a water catchment system. Now the child care center has a sustainable water system that has improved the lives and care of the children.  Daniel and the staff at the child care center continue to work with LUA to identify needs that can change the lives of their students.