Giving · Orphans and children
Orphans and children
Every child deserves a safe home, food, school and a doctor. Since 1993, Islamic Relief Kenya has stood beside orphans and their families.
Every child deserves the best start in life
A child who loses a parent can lose much more: a place at school, regular meals, a doctor when they are ill, and a safe home. Many orphans in Kenya are cared for by a single parent, a grandparent or a relative who is already struggling to make ends meet.
We do not believe in one-off help alone. Through our Orphan Sponsorship Programme we support the child and the family around them, so children can stay in school, stay healthy and look to the future with hope.
How we support orphans in Kenya
Education
Staying in school
Sponsorship helps cover school costs, so orphaned children can learn and build a future.
Health and nutrition
Food, clothing and healthcare
Children receive nutritious food, clothing and access to healthcare services.
Family strengthening
Helping carers earn a living
Caregivers receive income-generating support and small business help, so households are more stable and children can stay in school.
Skills
Vocational skills for families
Skills training gives older children and carers a way to earn a living and support the family.
Why caring for orphans matters in Islam
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that whoever cares for an orphan will be close to him in Paradise. This hadith is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari.
The Qur’an speaks again and again of the rights of orphans. It warns against turning them away (107:1-2), tells believers not to oppress the orphan (93:9) and names orphans among those who should receive our charity (2:215).
Children are a gift from Allah and a trust (amanah). Caring for them is among the finest things we can do with our wealth.
Give now
Choose your fund on our donation page and pay by M-Pesa or card.
You will choose your fund at donate.islamic-relief.or.ke.Questions about orphan sponsorship
How is my donation used?
Your gift goes towards food, clothing, school costs, healthcare and a safe, stable home for orphaned children, and towards support for their carers so the family can stand on its own feet.
Where are orphans supported?
Today our Orphan Sponsorship Programme supports orphaned children in Garissa, Mandera and Wajir Counties. It began in Mandera in 1993.
Can I give my Zakat to orphans?
Zakat may be given to people who are poor and in need, and that can include orphans. If you want advice for your own situation, please ask your local scholar.
How do I ask about sponsoring a child?
Write to our donor care team at [email protected], or choose Orphans and children on our donation page.
Talk to us
- Donations and fundraisingGiving, fundraising for Islamic Relief or help with a donation:
[email protected] - General questionsProgrammes, partnerships and volunteering:
[email protected] - Media enquiriesInterviews, photos and press requests:
[email protected]
Our orphans and child welfare results in 2025
Orphan support, 2025. What Islamic Relief Kenya delivered with its supporters and partners last year.
Source: Islamic Relief Kenya Annual Report 2025.
Change a child’s future
Choose the Orphans and children fund on our donation page and give by M-Pesa or card.