Saint Charles Lwanga Boys Town
Growing Up in a Safe and Trusting Environment
The project began with an encounter with children living on the streets of Nairobi. Founded in 1995 by the Niermeyer Foundation, the Ruai center offers comprehensive support to vulnerable boys.
Since October 2015, the Archdiocese of Nairobi has entrusted its management to the Eudists. The team supports the young people in their rehabilitation, education, and personal development, with a focus on health, life skills, and human and spiritual formation.
A work born from an encounter
A story of presence and support
In 1992, David and Florence Niermeyer encountered children seeking help on the streets of Nairobi. This encounter led them to launch a shelter, founded in 1995 by the Niermeyer Foundation.
After an initial period under the management of the Archdiocese of Nairobi, the Congregation of Jesus and Mary assumed responsibility for the home in October 2015. A board of trustees oversees the organization’s direction; the Eudist administrator handles its day-to-day management.
Daily Care
Food and Health
The home provides three meals a day and basic health care. The boys also help grow vegetables in the garden; donations and support from the community help meet food needs.
Comprehensive Support
Mission and Objectives
The mission supports vulnerable boys to foster their recovery, education, and development in all aspects of their lives.
Reception and Rehabilitation
Supporting boys affected by life on the streets, dropping out of school, or difficult circumstances through active listening, psychosocial support, a home environment with mentors, and tailored educational pathways.
Food and Basic Healthcare
Providing daily meals, basic healthcare, and, when necessary, referrals to specialized health services.
Preschool and Elementary Education
Providing quality education with qualified teachers and supporting each young person throughout their academic journey.
Scholarships for Secondary and Higher Education
Encourage the pursuit of further education through financial support for young people from vulnerable backgrounds.
Extracurricular Activities
Developing talents and team spirit through theater, music, and sports, as well as through gatherings and competitions.
Life Skills and Self-Reliance
Teaching practical skills through gardening, greenhouse cultivation, poultry farming, and dairy farming.
Spiritual and Moral Development
Guiding young people in the Catholic faith, sacramental life, and the development of moral values both at school and at home.
A Mission Taking Shape
The Milcent theme sheets document life at Boys Town Africa and the center’s development work, particularly the classroom and dormitory projects. They bring together news, images, and resources related to this ministry.
Improving Living and Learning Environments
Infrastructure Projects
The center has several projects underway to better meet the needs of the youth and the community.
A Better-Suited Dormitory
Improve sleeping areas and sanitary facilities to provide a safer and more comfortable living environment.
A Secondary School Building
Provide classrooms and a science lab to support students as they continue their academic journey.
A multipurpose room and a chapel
Create a space for meals, meetings with families and benefactors, and spiritual life.
Improve the chicken coop
Expand poultry farming to contribute to food security and support the home’s operations.