Women's Program & Girl's program
KQFE is mainly divided into 2: Women’s Program and Girl’s Program.
Women's Program
Welcome to the Women’s Program at Kenya Quilts For Empowerment (KQFE), where we are dedicated to fostering economic independence and empowerment among women through our innovative initiatives. In our pursuit of social change, we prioritize fair compensation, skill development, and community support to uplift the lives of women in Luanda sub-county, Vihiga county, Kenya.
At the heart of our Women’s Program lies our commitment to equitable compensation and sustainable support. Since our inception, we have ensured that the women in our quilting program receive fair-trade wages for their valuable craftsmanship. Going beyond mere remuneration, KQFE has extended its support by contributing equally to income-generating initiatives since 2018. Through these efforts, we empower women to invest in their futures by providing non-refundable cash transfers, facilitating access to national health insurance, and offering emergency loans.
Aligned with evidence-based best practices, our program encompasses a holistic approach to economic empowerment. Women receive non-refundable cash transfers to fuel income-generating activities, and access to comprehensive health insurance for their households. Additionally, financial literacy training and ongoing mentoring, spearheaded by our dedicated Field Supervisor, John, equip women with the tools for long-term success. Even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, we stood by our commitment to women’s well-being. Recognizing the hardships faced by our beneficiaries, we provided monthly stipends to alleviate financial strain and facilitated skill-building activities such as soap making to supplement lost income.
Through rigorous evaluation using culturally relevant outcome measures, we have witnessed the transformative impact of our programs. Despite adversities, our efforts have yielded positive results, ensuring that all household members have access to regular meals, children receive education, and women cultivate diverse income sources. As a testament to our success, the inaugural support group graduated in April 2022, equipped with the skills and resources to support themselves and their families. These empowered women now serve as ambassadors of change, extending our outreach to communities in need and advocating for critical healthcare interventions such as fistula surgery.
As we forge ahead, the Women’s Program at KQFE remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing gender equality and socioeconomic empowerment. With the formation of a second support group, we continue to expand opportunities for women to thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Together, we embark on a journey of empowerment, fostering resilience, dignity, and hope for generations to come.
Girl's Program
Welcome to Kenya Quilts For Empowerment (KQFE), where we have dedicated ourselves to providing refuge and empowerment to young girls who have endured the horrors of gender-based violence. Since our establishment in 2019, we have tirelessly worked to create a safe haven where these girls can heal, thrive, and reclaim their futures. Through a holistic approach encompassing housing, healthcare, education, and emotional support, we have witnessed remarkable transformations in the lives of these resilient individuals.
Upon entering our program, many of the girls were grappling with the physical and emotional scars of their past traumas. Malnourished, unwell, and lacking formal education, they faced immense challenges. However, through the unwavering support of KQFE, these girls have defied the odds. Today, they stand as shining examples of resilience and determination. With access to nutritious meals, quality healthcare, and educational opportunities, they have not only regained their health but have also excelled academically. Under the guidance of a skilled child psychologist, they are bravely confronting their past traumas, embarking on a journey of healing and self-discovery.
The generosity of donors from the United States has been instrumental in sustaining our efforts. Their contributions ensure that the girls receive the care and education they deserve. From covering daily expenses to establishing an emergency fund for unforeseen needs, their support has been invaluable. Within the safe confines of the KQFE compound, under the vigilant supervision of our dedicated Program Director, Norah Otondo, these girls are nurtured and empowered to realize their full potential. Moreover, funds allocated for maintenance and staffing ensure that our operations run smoothly, enabling us to focus on the well-being and development of the girls entrusted to our care.
At Kenya Quilts For Empowerment, we believe that every girl deserves a chance to thrive, irrespective of the challenges they have faced. Through our holistic approach and unwavering commitment, we are paving the way for a brighter future for these young survivors. As they continue their journey of healing and growth, we remain steadfast in our mission to empower them with the tools and support they need to build fulfilling lives. Together, with the support of our donors and the dedication of our team, we will continue to be a beacon of hope for those who need it most.