Enfants de Mathare

Please help us in support of Roots Institute Centre , a pre- and primary school that provides free education, nutritious meals and a safe environment for over 450 children who are growing up under very unstable and unsafe conditions in the Mathare slum, Nairobi. I had the opportunity to visit the school multiple times during our year in Nairobi and I am amazed how much they can accomplish with only very little resources. The dedication, love and support the school’s director and her team give to these children who otherwise would not have this opportunity to learn and grow in a place where people try to survive on $2 a day is out of this world. More importantly, Last year, the school was able to take a remarkable step forward: replacing the fragile corrugated metal classrooms that have served generations of children with a safe, permanent school building where students can learn, grow, and thrive. The new multi-storey school will provide modern classrooms, a library, science and computer facilities, and dedicated spaces for arts and athletics. More than just a building, it will offer stability, opportunity, and hope for hundreds of children whose futures depend on access to quality education. Our family is committed to supporting the school long-term and we can assure you that all funds raised will directly benefit the school. Thank you so much for your support, even a little bit can get us a long way to give hope to the Children of Mathare. Angelika

Hello Friends, A few of us from the Class of 2025 are organizing a fundraiser to support the Roots Institute in Nairobi, Kenya. This past summer, a group of TEMBA students had the opportunity to take part in a city tour of Nairobi led by Daniel, also known as “More Fire.” This tour, guided by former street children who grew up in the slums, provided us with a deeper understanding of both the vibrant spirit of Nairobi and the harsh realities faced by many living on the streets. More Fire and his team, who themselves have overcome these challenges, now give back to their community by channeling a significant portion of the tour proceeds to the Roots Institute. This school serves as a lifeline for children in Mathare, their home, supporting the next generation’s growth and potential. For many children and young people, schools like the Roots Institute are not just places to learn—they are safe spaces where they receive regular nutritious meals and find hope beyond the slums. The Roots Institute Centre offers free education (from pre-school to primary), daily meals, and a secure environment for over 350 children in the Mathare Kosovo Community. In this community of over 850,000 people , many families survive on less than 2 euros a day . In such challenging conditions, education becomes a powerful tool for change, creating paths to jobs, better health, and new opportunities. To help sustain this important mission, we’re asking for your support. Every contribution, no matter the size, directly impacts these children’s education and well-being. To put things into perspective, a donation of $35 can help feed a child for 10 months. Your support can make a significant difference, helping these children thrive and build a better future. Can you help us?