Mount Elgon Children’s Home (METCH) has become a safe haven for orphans and children from dire family situations, offering them a place they can truly call home. Founded in 2007, the home initially accepted sixteen children into care. By 2010, a new orphanage building was constructed, featuring seven rooms, a spacious dining and study area, a living room, and a large garden. The home also boasts a beautiful playground where children can engage in outdoor activities and enjoy their childhood.
The home is staffed by two caregivers, two social workers, and an administrator, all dedicated to meeting the needs of the children. Currently, the home provides care for twelve children aged between 4 and 17 years. Each child receives the essentials for daily living, a proper education at Andersen Primary School or Andersen High School, and access to health services at Andersen Medical Centre. Social workers regularly conduct school visits to monitor the children’s academic progress and, where possible, conduct home visits to check on the children’s families. To maintain connections with their remaining family members, children are encouraged to visit their families during holidays, provided it is possible ánd safe to do so.
Monthly guidance and counselling are provided by our dedicated counsellors from Andersen Medical Clinic, ensuring the children receive the emotional and psychological support they need. The care and rescue activities are informed by Article 53(2) of the 2010 Constitution and the amended Children’s Act of 2022, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of children in charitable children’s institutions. Mount Elgon Trust works closely with community health workers, law enforcement, and local government to assess the situations of children in need before welcoming them into METCH. For the protection and privacy of the children, we do not allow expatriates to work in the home.
In 2023, one of our children at METCH was awarded a prestigious county scholarship from Governor George Natembeya, a testament to the home’s focus on empowering the next generation.
Since its establishment, METCH has been a beacon of hope for over 70 children who have found new opportunities through education. Many of these children have successfully completed their schooling, some even pursuing university degrees. Today, they have returned to society as productive, confident individuals, contributing positively to their communities.
