Delivery of White Canes

On Saturday, October 26th, the Rotary Club of Nairobi Muthaiga North, in collaboration with RC Karengeta, visited Machakos to engage with visually impaired individuals and their caregivers. This visit provided a deeply humbling experience 🙏, as we witnessed firsthand the resilience and unwavering faith of these individuals, who, like Bartimaeus, demonstrate humility, perseverance, and trust in faith to navigate their challenges 🌟. The visit reached a profound moment when our Service Project Director noticed an individual being carried by family members 💔. In a heartfelt response, a fundraiser was initiated to provide a wheelchair, which was purchased and delivered during the visit. The sight of tears of joy and gratitude from the family and the beneficiary 😭💖 was a powerful reminder of the impact Rotary can make. This experience was truly life-changing, reaffirming our commitment to service and highlighting the strength that comes from empathy and compassion.

Community Needs, Project Impact and Sustainability
Community Assessment: How the project team learned about the community’s needs
The community leaders reached out through the Body of visually impaired persons ACK church Machakos. An assessment was carried out and members of the club visited the community for a clear understanding. There were many members who indeed were affected. There was need to facilitate white canes to improve their movement and independence.

Project Impact: How the project will help the community after the project ends
Aid their independence and mobility, symbolizing our commitment to empowering their everyday lives. A special address focused on mental health awareness for caregivers, who often face immense emotional and physical challenges. This session provided valuable insights on managing stress and building healthy coping mechanisms, reinforcing that caregiver wellness is crucial for providing effective support. A polio survivor shared their story and conducted a polio awareness session, shedding light on the challenges polio presents and emphasizing the importance of vaccination efforts.

Sustainability: How the benefits of the project will continue afterward
Registration with the Kenya Society of the Blind for continuity of service, and white cane campaign as part of its Diversity and Inclusion agenda