In the heart of Kibera, one of Africa’s largest and most densely populated slums, the daily struggle for survival shapes every aspect of life. Among the most vulnerable in this environment are the children, many of whom wake up each morning without the guarantee of a single meal. For these young learners, hunger is not just a physical pain—it’s a major obstacle to their education and future. As they head to overcrowded classrooms with empty stomachs, the ability to focus, participate, and retain knowledge is severely compromised. Over time, the impact of chronic hunger becomes too much to bear, and some children are forced to abandon their education altogether in search of food. This may lead them to the streets, where they face the very real threats of exploitation, violence, and drug abuse.
Recognizing this urgent need, TEL International’s Feeding and Nutrition program is stepping in to bridge the gap between survival and learning. By providing a reliable source of nutritious food—breakfast and lunch each school day—the program addresses one of the most critical barriers to education in Kibera. These meals are more than just sustenance; they represent hope and stability in an otherwise uncertain world. With the assurance of a daily meal, children are motivated to attend school regularly. Hunger no longer dictates their day, allowing them to sit in classrooms with renewed energy and the capacity to learn.
The impact of the program extends well beyond the classroom. A well-fed child is not only more attentive and academically engaged but also physically healthier and emotionally more resilient. Proper nutrition strengthens their immune systems, reduces illness-related absences, and gives them the strength to participate fully in school and play. Over time, this consistency begins to change the trajectory of their lives. Improved academic performance opens doors to future opportunities that would otherwise remain closed. It creates the possibility of escaping the cycles of poverty that have trapped generations before them.
By keeping children in school and off the streets, the program acts as a protective barrier against the harshest elements of slum life. In an environment where children are frequently exposed to drugs, gangs, and other dangers, the school becomes a safe haven—a place where they are nurtured, fed, and encouraged to dream beyond their current reality. This safe, structured setting fosters not only academic growth but also emotional well-being and personal development, providing children with a sense of stability, belonging, and self-worth that is often lacking in their daily environment. It becomes a space where they are encouraged to express themselves, build confidence, form healthy relationships, and begin to envision a future beyond the limitations of their circumstances.
Feeding a child, therefore, becomes more than just an act of charity—it is an investment in their future, in their dignity, and in the potential of entire communities. Our work in Kibera demonstrates the powerful connection between nutrition and education. It shows that when children are nourished, their minds can flourish. And when their minds flourish, so too does the hope for a future that looks different than the past. This program is a vital step toward breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering the next generation with the tools they need to create lasting change in their lives and communities.
Want to get involved? Make a donation, create a fundraiser or consider sending this article to your friends. If your friends tell their friends, who tell their friends – that’s a whole lot of friends. So join us on Facebook, Twitter, and share our latest stories, blogs and posts. Your support and sharing our story with your friends helps us achieve our mission. Answer the call today and fulfill Jesus’ mandate to be in mission.