The majority of the population in Kenya is living on $2 a day or less. The average cost of a high school or college education is $3.24 a day. 75% of Kenyan youth every year drop out of high school because of factors associated with household poverty. Still, An education remains the gatekeeper to opportunity, self-sufficiency and entry into viable job markets. Its also lays the foundation for expanding young minds, reinforces self-confidence and provides a platform for creative expression. An education is in short…the pathway to an unhindered future.
Jeremiah Scholarship Program (JSP)
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." -Jeremiah 29:11
Jeremiah Scholarships identify the most disadvantaged and vulnerable youth in Kenya and affords them access to a formal education at the secondary school level or beyond. Founded upon the Biblical reference of Jeremiah 29:11, the program gives priority to orphans and children made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS, young women and homeless youth, giving them access to “hope and a future,” that would not otherwise be afforded to them. To date, around 500 young men and women have received scholarships and graduated. These youth otherwise would not have been able to access or afford their education! 80% of our graduate scholars have gone on to be employed in career-oriented jobs, rather than manual or casual jobs which are more survival-based and unstable. JSP goes beyond tuition fees and includes peripheral costs that could also pose a barrier to uninterrupted school attendance including:
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School uniform and stationary items
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Transportation costs
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Housing
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Medical care
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Supplemental tutoring
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Personal hygiene products
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SFH’s program model of care provides one-on-one mentorship, counseling and ongoing followup in line with a student-identified career interests. The results are powerful and go well beyond a certificate of completion.
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SFH works at the household level where possible to improve livelihood potential of caregivers to support the family for the long-term. Expanding access to health, psychosocial support, and income generating activities creates possibility.