Its relief for Caregivers of children living with autism and cerebral palsy in Kericho after Safaricom Foundation offered them diaper making machines valued at Sh. 500,000.
The two machines handed over to Arise and Shine, a community- based organisation (CBO) that supports children living with autism and cerebral palsy, is expected to ease the financial burden of purchasing diapers while also creating a source of livelihood for the caregivers and widows.
Speaking during the handover ceremony held at the CBO grounds situated along the Kericho-Kisumu highway at Duka Moja area, a representative from Safaricom Foundation Mr. Tom Owour said the initiative is part of the company’s commitment to empowering vulnerable communities.
“We are committed to supporting children living with special needs because we understand the daily challenges they face. The machine will help ease the burden of caregivers while improving the quality of care,” said Mr. Owour.
According to the director of the CBO Mrs. Pamela Keno, the initiative will enable the beneficiaries to produce affordable diapers locally, improving hygiene and dignity for the children living with the special conditions as they require constant care and attention.
“Many of our caregivers struggle to afford basic necessities like diapers. This machine will not only reduce that burden but also give them an opportunity to earn a living and support their families.” said Mrs. Keno.
The director noted that demand for diapers among children with autism and cerebral palsy remains high, making the donation both a social and economic intervention for vulnerable families.
“We will be able to produce up to 40 diapers per day in different sizes, including adult, medium and small. The diapers will retail between Sh. 400 and Sh.500 depending on their size, making them more affordable for the caregivers.
They will be made using cotton fabric with a waterproof inner layer to ensure comfort and durability, “Mrs. Keno said.
Caregivers welcomed the donation, describing it at timely and transformative.
A caregiver living with her 20-year daughter living with cerebral palsy Deborah Cherotich said she spends Sh. 3,000 on adult diapers each month and welcomed the donation, noting that it will help her acquire skills to make and sell diapers.
“I have been spending a lot of money on diapers every month. This support will reduce my expenses and also give me an opportunity to earn a living,” said Mama Rotich.
Another beneficiary expressed hope that the project will improve his daily life as he takes care of his two children living with disabilities.
“Taking care of children with special needs is demanding. I am a father of two teenage boys aged 19 and 16 years and all were born with special needs; one is mentally challenged while the other is living with autism. With this machine, I feel supported and encouraged that I am not alone,” said Andrew Rono.
Arise and Shine CBO, based in Kericho and founded in 2023, is dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and neurodevelopmental disorders while advocating for their rights, dignity and inclusion, The organisation also focuses on empowering caregivers and their families.
by Sarah Njagi
