Vulnerable children in Thika received an early Christmas boost after officers from the Administration Police Service donated foodstuffs and essential household items to Macheo Children Organization, reinforcing the police’s role as partners and friends of the community.
The donation, spearheaded by officers from Kiambu County under the county police command, included mattresses, cooking oil, maize and wheat flour, snacks and other supplies to support the children’s home during the festive season.
The initiative was funded through personal contributions by officers across the county as part of a Christmas outreach programme aimed at sharing love and hope with the needy and vulnerable.
Macheo Children Organization Manager in charge of child protection and mental health support, Joan Mburu, said the support would help the children celebrate Christmas with dignity.
She noted that the home shelters children who have experienced abuse, neglect and abandonment.
“This support has brought joy and encouragement to the children and caregivers. At least this Christmas, the children will have food, decent bedding and the assurance that they are loved and remembered,” Mburu said, appealing for more support from individual well-wishers and organizations. She cited growing needs at the home.
Representing the Kiambu County Police Commander, Githurai Sub-County Administration Police Commander Superintendent Peter Muthomi said the initiative was meant to appreciate the gift of life by spreading joy and compassion to vulnerable children.
He stressed that the Administration Police should not be viewed as enemies but as part of the community.
“Years ago, many people feared the police. Today, that perception is changing as the community embraces us as partners, which has helped improve security,” Muthomi said.
He added that children at the home now view police officers as role models, strengthening trust between law enforcers and the public. He further assured residents that security in the area has been enhanced.
Elsewhere in Thika, Eden Community-Based Organisation (CBO) also received Christmas foodstuffs and clothing donations from members of the Thika business community, bringing rare relief to hundreds of vulnerable slum residents.
The centre supports more than 500 people through a feeding programme and household visits, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, children and about 50 bedridden patients suffering from chronic illnesses such as diabetes.
Eden CBO Chairperson Eunice Matangi said the donations came at a critical time, noting that without the support, many beneficiaries would not have marked Christmas at all.
“The economy is harsh and poverty is widespread. This support, though little, gives hope and allows us to share Christmas love. Many families will still not celebrate due to lack, and we appeal to other well-wishers to help spread the spirit of giving,” she said.
By Muoki Charles
