Hello everyone,

My name is Shania and I am a nursing student.

In July, I will be traveling to Arusha in Tanzania with Step Africa. I will be volunteering with Jitambue Kwanza which is a Daycare, Pre-School and After-School-Center in Daraja Mbili, Arusha. This trip is completely self-funded and therefor I am reaching out to you for help in fundraising this incredible program.

Daraja mbili in Arusha is an area where many young children spend their days unsupervised on the streets while their parents work. These streets are far from safe, with challenges like violence, poverty, drug abuse, and a lack of access to education and basic care. Jitambue is located here which is one of the poorest areas of Arusha. For many children, it is a safe place away from the dangers of the streets, such as violence, crime, drugs and alcoholism.

There are 7 teachers who take care of the children. Every day, around 150 children come to this center to learn, play, and simply be kids in a safe, supportive environment. There’s also an after-school program where older children receive help with homework, learn English, and engage in creative activities.

Elinaja the founder of Jitambue, built this project together with his family on his own land.

Unfortunately, the center is completely dependent on donations to cover its costs.

Elinaja charges a school fee of 15,000 Tanzanian shillings per month, which is about €6.

However, almost no family can afford this amount, which is why most of the children either pay nothing at all or contribute a small amount every now and then whenever they can.

I will be working and assisting the teachers supporting them in whatever ways possible. I hope that with the money I raise, I can help with various things that are needed like

Teaching and learning materials

Nutritious food for the children

Classroom furniture and playground equipment and construction (Right now, there’s no dedicated outdoor space for play.

Paint, tools, and supplies for renovation of the building.

Supporting the teachers

Creating a more inclusive space for children with disabilities

Starting an outreach program to connect with more families in the district and bring more children into the safety of the center.

Even a small donation can go a long way—€5 can help feed a child for a week.

Every bit truly helps and is very much appreciated and I thank you in advance

For updates on my journey and where the donations are going you can follow my Instagram - @shania_o_miadhachain