Tushinde provides a unique model of family strengthening and child protection in the Mathare and Kiambiu slums of Nairobi, Kenya. Teenage girls and boys in Tushinde’s target population face specific challenges and vulnerabilities. Many have been in and out of school for years. Some can’t afford school fees, others begin working to help support their families, and some don’t see the value of education if they can hustle to survive. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this situation for them. Schools are closed, many care givers are jobless or have less work resulting in food insecurity. There is an increase in child abuse, teen pregnancy, intimate partner violence and/or gender-based violence and neglect.

Over the last 18 months, with ALMT funding, Tushinde initiated a youth and employability programme for 100 teenage boys and girls. The feedback gained during the first phase of the programme has shown a significant need for ongoing support. The ALMT trustees have been impressed by Tushinde’s thoughtful and holistic approach during the first phase of the programme, particularly in light of the challenges faced during the pandemic. This project will enable Tushinde to build on the first phase of work and fully embed the youth programme in the community.

Between 2020-2022 Tushinde will build on the success of the first grant empowering 100 young people to overcome the challenges they face. The project will offer support with nutrition, housing, access to school, vocational training, and psychosocial support so that young people can realise their rights and thrive. Core activities will include:

– Weekly mentoring sessions-Quarterly large group training workshops

– Gender-specific group sessions

– My Star assessments (My Star is an evidence-based tool which assesses well-being in vulnerable young people)

– Vocational training (10 per year)

– Social worker sessions

– Emergency funds for food, medicine or housing.