Through the funding from CHF in August 2008, the program selected 500 OVC beneficiaries from Kalama and central division in Machakos District who were supported with different services as per the need of the child. In 2009, there was a transition of the program from CHF international to CRS and the number of the OVC increased to 1007 OVC from the two divisions in Machakos County. The program supports the beneficiaries with 6+1 services namely:
Health: The program allows the beneficiaries to access both minor and major treatment from Machakos level five hospital or any other health facility where the OVC have been referred to by government health facilities. Teenage girls are helped to remain in school by being provided with sanitary towels on a monthly basis. All beneficiaries are given water guard to treat drinking water in an effort to beat water borne diseases. Lastly, a number of OVC are under ART (Anti retroviral therapy) and are supported to attend Comprehensive care clinics (CCC).
Psychosocial support: The social workers in the program regularly carry out home visits and school visits to ensure that all OVC are in school, are doing well in and also counseling them and their care givers on how they can live a healthy life. The OVC often attend PSS group meetings especially during holidays
Education support: The program pays school fees for children in secondary schools, vocational training, and also provides them with school uniform and scholastic materials like pens & books.
Child protection: The program helps the beneficiaries to acquire birth certificates and any other legal documentation they may require.
Shelter: The program provides the beneficiaries with blankets, inner wear etc. Additionally, the program renovates houses for the OVC when need be.
Economic strengthening: The caregivers from various regions form support groups and are trained in these groups on how they can start small businesses and income generating activities(IGA) to enable them support the OVC in their care.
Achievements
The OVC Program works closely with the government and other stake holders during mobilization, consultative meetings and during implementation of our activities.
The OVC Program has succeeded in training of Life skills by formation of clubs in schools e.g. young farmers club Katelembo Primary School.
Through payment of school fees our beneficiaries have been retained in school. Additionally, beneficiaries have been able to access health services.
We have improved shelter and care among the OVC by renovating 4 houses.
Helping Families in Need
OVC are tested and counseled on HIV/AIDS and referrals done where necessary.