Support John Otieno's Mission for Marsabit Children

Hi, my name is John Otieno. I'm a senior nursing student at Elmhurst University and I'm from Kenya, born and raised. I’m writing this with a heavy heart, but also with hope.

There are children in Marsabit, Kenya, who wake up each day unsure if they’ll have anything to eat. Some go to sleep with nothing in their bellies but water, or sometimes not even that. Others walk miles barefoot, under the hot sun, just to get to school — often without books, pencils, or even shoes.

These are bright, beautiful kids with big dreams. But hunger, poverty, and insecurity are stealing their childhoods. Some of them have lost parents. Some live in homes made of sticks and mud, with no running water or electricity. And yet, they still smile. They still hope. They still show up for school when they can, eager to learn, eager to be seen.

I’m fundraising to help these kids and to give them something many of us take for granted:

- A full plate of food.

- A pair of shoes.

- A backpack with notebooks and pencils.

- Clothes that fit and keep them warm.

- A sense of dignity and a chance at a better future.

The situation in Marsabit is urgent. The droughts have been relentless, and families are struggling just to survive. Schools are trying their best but lack even the most basic supplies. These children need us now more than ever.

I’m not a big organization. I’m just one person trying to do something, anything, to help. Every donation, no matter how small, will go directly toward food, school supplies, clothes, and other essentials for children in need. I’ll share updates along the way.

If you’ve ever looked at a child and thought, “They deserve better,” then I’m asking you to please help me give these children a better shot at life. Even $5 can make a real difference. Even sharing this story can help it reach someone who’s able to give.

Thank you for reading this, thank you for caring, and thank you, from me, and from the children whose lives you’re about to touch — for believing in hope.

With love and gratitude,

John Otieno