Some days’ events turn out ugly but God’s mercies are surely new every morning! Thursday August 14 was such a day when our Happy Life Juja Farm Campus experienced a devastating fire that caused significant damage to some parts of the campus, including the new children's dormitories (Peace and Faith Houses), our support staff quarters, and a part of the multi-purpose hall. The fire spread from the neighboring compound, where someone was burning dry grass. 

By God’s grace, while the damage left behind was significant, there were no casualties, and all the children and staff were safely accounted for. For this, we are deeply grateful.

The fire destroyed and damaged property that forms an essential part of daily life at Juja Farm. From the paint on the walls, beds and mattresses to clothing, beddings, furniture, kitchen and dining equipment, and other household essentials, there is now much to replace as we work to restore the affected spaces and help the children return to a sense of normalcy.

For the children who call Juja Farm Home, the loss is more than buildings and beds. It is their valued personal belongings, bedrooms, dining spaces, and places of safety and belonging. Seeing these spaces affected has been difficult, but we are encouraged by the resilience of our children, staff, and the wider Happy Life family.

Happy Life Children's Home Fire Damage Estimates 

Some of the immediate needs include:

● 40 Double decker beds $4320

● Clothes, towels, blankets etc. $2800

● Tiles $1380

● Paint works $6750

● Windows $1860

● Tv screens $1500

● Wardrobe $6370

● Kitchen cabinets and equipment $3460

● Mattresses  $1840

● Electric and Electricals $2200

Total $32,480

 

Others … 

● Staff household items $5150

● Water system and plumbing $3910

● Simple staff houses $4850

● Building repairs $14,400

            Total $42,711

Grand Total estimated costs: $75,191

At a time like this, we are reminded that rebuilding is not just about facilities and clothes, but also dealing with the trauma caused by the fire. We therefore ask for your prayers that our children continue to have a safe, loving place to call home. Pray also for provision, wisdom as we navigate the recovery process, and for the restoration of everything that was lost.

We thank God for protecting every life, and we thank you for standing with us as we rebuild.

Praise God With us For:

• The safety of all the children and staff during the fire incident.

• Healing of baby Tyrone who was receiving treatment.

Pray With us For:

• A smooth third semester as we open schools in a week’s time.

• Peace over all our children and staff saddened by the loss from the fire.

• God to restore all that was lost.

To God be the glory!

Thank you for standing with Happy Life Mission - Kenya.