Meet Valentine
Aged 4, Kenya
Valentine and her family live in a single rented room, partitioned by bedsheets into three separate areas. They have a small table in the living area, which they use when cooking and have a two-seater which is very worn. Valentine’s mother shares her bed with two of her children and the other three children also share a bed. The bedding they use is old and worn. The family collects their water from a bore hole which is shared by 14 households, and these families also share their toilet facilities. Valentine’s mother does some casual work when she is able; jobs like cleaning and washing clothes or working on other people’s farms. She is trying to earn enough to be able to cover the basic needs of her family, but it is not easy.
By being part of the Stand by Me sponsorship program, Valentine can access a quality education, nutritious meals, school materials and other caring support.
Valentine is shy but can be very talkative when with her own family. She loves to attend church and being part of Sunday school. She enjoys playing hide and seek and likes to play with her friends. She is an intelligent girl.
Where Valentine lives
The Open Arms Village was founded in 2006 to meet the immediate needs of orphaned and abandoned children in western Kenya who were suffering from a wide variety of life-threatening diseases. After the 2008 political violence left thousands of children orphaned, abandoned and homeless, the project grew to support more children. Today, the Open Arms Village is now home to over 150 children with 10 purpose-built family homes and the Open Arm Academy is educating children and giving them a hopeful future.
Why Stand by Me?
What you receive
When you sponsor Valentine you will receive a pack in the post with her story and photo. Every year you will receive an update about her progress, a new photo and at least one communication from her.
Real relationship
We know our kids love to receive your emails and write back so we encourage you to write as many emails as you like, along with photos and birthday gifts to develop a genuine relationship.
Not sure yet?
Ask us anything. We’ve helped sponsors change 1000s of kids’ lives, and we know it can be a big decision. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
