A few months ago, we had our first visit with the children of Shalom Rescue Center in the outcasts of Nairobi City in Githurai. We left feeling inspired, challenged, motivated, and drawn to do more. Since then, we have had the pleasure of getting to know their mother, Josephine Wangari Kuria. She is also the managing director of this rescue center. Additionally, we have enjoyed sharing and mingling with her children as we shower them with love and fellowship.
Shalom Rescue Center was established in 2018 when Josephine, who was only 20 years of age, had a burning desire to make a change within her hometown. In a candid interview, Josephine explains that as a young girl, she too had a life-changing experience when a well-wisher supported her through a tough time in her schooling years when she thought her only option was to drop out of school. Her parents did not have the means to support her financially despite her desire to pursue an education.
This experience was the second chance in life and a steppingstone toward a better future for Josephine. It was essential for Josephine to pay it forward, which is how the vision of opening a rescue center was born.
Despite her young age and opposition from family members and friends, Josephine’s’ determination fueled her will to see her vision through. She took out personal loans with which she went through the formal legal channels of registering a rescue center and rented out a five-bedroom house which officially started accepting orphaned and abandoned children within her hometown. Within no time, the rescue center was maxed out to the recommended capacity, holding 24 children.
Derick Jessi, a 15-year-old boy, was one of the first children rescued by Josephine 4 years ago. He explained that he sought shelter at Shalom Rescue Center after being abandoned by physically abusive and alcoholic parents. Derick spoke highly of the hard work his mama Josephine puts in to ensure he and his siblings never lack. As one of the older boys, he helps his mama Josephine to care for his younger siblings.
The center’s operation is made possible with the help of a volunteer cook, a house matron, and a worker who helps keep the home clean. Josephine works a full-time job with which she finances the expenses of the rescue center and relies on well-wishers’ support. When COVID pandemic hit, Josephine’s work slowed down, posing a significant challenge for the center. It made it exceedingly difficult for her to pay rent, causing them to fall behind. Other challenges the center faces include a lack of sufficient bedding for the children, a need for kitchen supplies, furnishing the extra bedroom that is currently in use as a storeroom, books, school supplies for the children and continued support from well wishers.
Messianic Hope International began the work of renovating and repairing some of the immediate needs the center has and will continue to support the fantastic work that Josephine has been doing. It is truly remarkable to see a determined young woman dedicate her life to the good of others, and it makes us feel blessed to be a small part of the work she is doing. We ask that you kindly help us support her efforts and continue making positive change.
