Education Provides a Path Out of Poverty

We met Alex at the dumpsite in Kenya. At age 13, Alex would see us and hide. We learned he was born and raised in a slum right next to the dumpsite. Every morning, he would head to the dumpsite to collect recyclables to sell. On good days, he would take home the equivalent of one to two U.S. dollars to help feed his mother and sisters. 

A Chance to Go Back to School

After several attempts, Alex agreed to give us an ear. He also agreed that, given the chance, he would like to go back to school. For a whole term, Alex hadn’t gone to school after he was sent home due to unpaid school fees. We helped him enroll in school, but he didn’t stop going to the dumpsite because his family depended on the money for food and medication.

We knew Alex wanted to help his mother and sisters, but our team in Kenya has too often seen well-meaning children and young adults get caught in a cycle of poverty. Alex, do you want more for your life than going to the dumpsite every day?

New School, New Start

We told Alex we’d help him transfer to a good boarding school that’s 72 kilometers (almost 45 miles) away from the garbage dump so he could focus on his studies. At the same time, his uncle stepped in to support the family, with income from his small spice shop.  

When Alex started at his new boarding school, he had grades Below Expectations, but now, at age 16, he has managed to maneuver his way up to Exceeding Expectations, which is the highest grading level! His teachers recognize the change they have seen in him, in his academics and personal hygiene. When he started, he could barely express himself clearly. He now expresses himself well in English without any fear. 

Finding His Voice — and His Skates 

Outside the classroom, Alex’s love for skating makes him stand out among other scholars. Due to his prowess in skating and leadership skills, his fellow scholars appointed him as the captain for the Victory Rollers Club, our skating club through International Samaritan Kenya.

For scholarship students working to break out of poverty, skating can provide a way to earn some money! Companies will hire skaters to distribute flyers and marketing materials in crowded shopping areas. The students also have the chance to compete in local and national skating competitions.

Recently, Alex approached me with an additional list of items that the skating club needs, like protective gear and a toolbox for repairing skates. He has also brought a proposal for skating uniforms for his team. He says that he wants the club to be the best.

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

Alex is no longer a dumpsite boy. Today, he is at the top of his class in academics and a fast-rising skating star. His education is possible, thanks to people like you, and his story gives hope to our other scholarship students who are still finding their paths. 

Esther Njoroge, Program Assistant, Kenya

Esther has spent the last four years working closely with the community to drive a positive change. She focuses on education and empowerment. She has a great passion for girls’ and women’s empowerment. Esther holds a bachelor’s degree in Arts Education from Chuka University, Kenya. She loves reading and writing short stories and poems, which she uses as a tool for connection and growth.

Be A Samaritan

We all need someone who will stop and help: just as the Good Samaritan did in the biblical parable. Through the support of generous people, we’re able to offer scholarships that provide tuition, school supplies, mentorship, and basic health and wellness services. This support provides a path out of poverty for children and their families.

Be A Samaritan today: set up a recurring gift and help support life-changing scholarships every month.