suna migori otachochildrenshome@yahoo.com
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Welcome to Otacho Hands of Grace Community Care

A beacon of hope in the heart of Migori, Kenya. Based on the principles of love, faith and compassion, our home provides a caring environment for 142 children in need, instills Christian values ​​and ensures the holistic development of children. We strive to do so. Our commitment extends beyond the basic needs of food, shelter, and clothing. Otacho Hands of Grace Community Care, we believe in empowering the next generation through education. We strive to ensure that each child in our care has access to quality education, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to break the cycle of poverty and reach their full potential

Otacho Hands of Grace Community Care is not just a shelter; it is a sanctuary where dreams are nurtured, and futures are shaped. We envision a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

Our History

Our History is Our Story

Founded in 2003 by Nashon Otiato, Our story is one of compassion, rooted in the personal experience of our founder, Nashon Otiato. At the tender age of 8, Nashon found himself orphaned and facing an uncertain future. However, a benevolent Samaritan intervened, providing Nashon with more than just shelter and sustenance. This act of kindness bestowed upon him the gift of education, nurturing his potential and laying the foundation for the philanthropist he would become. Driven by the profound impact of generosity, Nashon, along with his wife Judith Ouma, established Otacho Hands of Grace Community Care with a mission to pay forward the kindness that changed his life.

Together, they have opened their hearts and home to 142 orphans, raising them as if they were their own. The couple, along with their three biological children, form a tight-knit family that is committed to providing love, care, and a supportive environment for every child under their roof.

142

Total
Children

51

Early Childhood Education

65

Primary
School

25

Secondary
School

1

University

Obstacles

Obstacles Encountered within the Otacho Community

Lack of Basic Needs:

Orphans and widows often struggle to meet their basic needs, including food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare. Without a reliable source of income, widows may find it difficult to provide for themselves and their children. Orphans, especially those not residing in care facilities, may lack proper nutrition, education, and healthcare, leaving them vulnerable to malnutrition, disease, and inadequate development, this also leads to high crime rates in the community about 18% of the youths are reported to at a high risk of joining crime groups or are already in crime groups for them to survive.

Stigmatization and Social Isolation:

Both orphans and widows and Otacho society as a whole can experience stigmatization and social isolation. Widows may be marginalized due to cultural norms, particularly in communities where traditional practices limit their rights and opportunities. Orphans may face discrimination within the community or exclusion due to their status, leading to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem. Otacho society experience social isolation due to its status in the community.

Limited Access to Education:

Orphans, especially those from low-income families, often encounter barriers to accessing quality education. The lack of financial resources can prevent them from attending proper school, leading to a cycle of poverty and limited future prospects. Widows may also struggle to provide education for their children, perpetuating the cycle of limited opportunities. The Otacho community also experiences limited access to educational facilities, with only 5 primary schools in the community and 5000 primary school-aged children who reside there. Due to very limited access to education, 20% of adults in Migori County have no formal education at all, and another 65% have no education past primary school.

Vulnerability to Exploitation and Abuse:

Both orphans and widows are susceptible to exploitation, abuse, and human rights violations. Widows, especially those without a support system, may face challenges in asserting their rights to property and inheritance. Orphaned children may be forced into child labour or early marriages, increasing their vulnerability to abuse. Due to lack of proper education and guidance from the community teenage girls are vulnerable to exploitation which leads to early pregnancies and eventually dropping out of schools. The Otacho community has reported about 21% of teenaged orphans have experienced rape and about 16% of widows experience exploitation and abuse.