Misisi is known as the worst, most neglected slum in Lusaka. With one hundred thousand inhabitants and no public schools, police stations, or health clinics, conditions here create widespread hopelessness. Lack of proper hygiene, coupled with the devastating HIV/AIDS problem in the country, leave thousands of kids orphaned, hungry, and in danger of being abused by child predators.

Some of these orphans have a grandparent or other relative that tries to care for them, even though many of them are barely able to care for themselves. But even this is not always an option; tragically, more than one thousand children in Misisi live in “child-headed families,” made up of orphaned brothers and sisters who depend only on each other for survival.

Our Keeping Families Together program in Misisi provides a daily meal, medical care, clothing, supplies needed for school attendance, daily tutoring, devotions, and emotional encouragement to more than 25 children. Many of these kids have family members who love them and want to care for them, but who can’t supply even the basics of life without help.

We are encouraged to see the positive changes in Misisi children as a result of this unique program. School attendance in this group has improved, academic attainment is much higher, and the children have grown in confidence and self-esteem. They and their families are coming to trust and appreciate the Kids Alive support that offers them tangible help as they survive difficult circumstances and navigate the road to successful futures.

Best of all, our reach in the community has expanded as a result of KFT, creating new inroads for the Gospel – the only lasting hope for the families of Misisi.