Family Needs-Based Model

Overview

The Family Needs-Based Model (FNBM) program, currently implemented by Macheo with support from Kipawa, is designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by vulnerable families in Ruiru. The program takes a holistic approach, focusing on food security, education access, healthcare, economic empowerment, and child protection.

Key Achievements in 2025

Families Reached: In 2025, through our partner Macheo, we supported 104 families and directly assisted 252 children with tailored interventions designed to address their most urgent root-cause needs.

Holistic Interventions:

  • Child Status Index (CSI) Improvement: 84% of children had all their basic needs met upon exiting the program, showing marked improvements in food security, shelter, and access to education.

  • Targeted Care: Special priority was given to supporting children in their first 1,000 days and adolescent girls to build long-term resilience.

  • Tailored Support: Social workers delivered individualised services spanning emergency family support, psychological counselling, assistance with school fees, and economic empowerment.

Benefits to the Ruiru Community

  • Improved Education Access: Scholarship referrals, school feeding, and uniform provision have kept more children in school.

  • Enhanced Family Stability: Economic empowerment programs have provided families with income-generating opportunities.

  • Better Healthcare: Health interventions, including maternal support and malnutrition treatment, have improved child well-being.

  • Strengthened Community Networks: Collaboration with stakeholders like UNTOLD has expanded resources for vulnerable families.

 
woman standing behind fruit and vegetable stall with red onions, red tomatoes, squash and pile of kale. Bright blue plastic wall in background

Esther

Esther is one woman who has been helped to establish a fruit and vegetable stall near her home. This has enabled her to support her two daughters and grandchild. She is now able to source produce directly from local farms, giving her a much more stable income.

The FNBM program has significantly improved the lives of many families in Ruiru by addressing their core needs. Despite facing challenges such as economic hardships and healthcare barriers, the program continues to foster resilience within the community.