Here At Kilimanjaro Candles and More, we believe that every candle we create does more than just illuminate your home it transforms lives. Today, our hearts were full as we visited a special needs boarding school in Kitui, Kenya, dedicated to children with intellectual and developmental challenges. Many of these children, including a significant number of orphans, depend entirely on the school for their education, care, and basic necessities.
During our visit, we were moved by the overwhelming need for essential supplies. Although our regular mission involves distributing sanitary pads, the heartfelt requests from the school led us to bring pampers, toilet paper, and even a pack of milk for each child. These contributions may seem small, but they provide comfort and dignity to children who face daily challenges far beyond our own.
The AIC Kiini School for children with special needs, much like other similar institutions in our village, struggles with limited resources and funding. For these children, simple items can make a world of difference helping them maintain proper hygiene, feel cared for, and focus on their education. Witnessing their resilience and determination, despite the hurdles they face, was both heart-wrenching and inspiring.
This impactful journey is made possible by you. Every candle purchase supports our charitable efforts, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most. For those who want to take their support a step further, we’re excited to introduce our five-tier monthly subscription program. This ongoing initiative allows you to contribute consistently, helping us provide essential supplies and continue our mission of empowerment and care.
If you’d like to receive more photos and updates from the ground, please feel free to reach out we’d be more than happy to share further insights.
Thank you for being a part of our journey. Your support truly lights up lives in Kitui and beyond.
DISTRIBUTION UPDATE!
Yesterday, we had the privilege of delivering essential supplies to the school. Here’s what we distributed:
•Toilet Rolls: 3 packs with 40 rolls each, totalling 120 toilet rolls.
PAMPERS:
•Large: 1 pack with 36 pampers
•Medium: 4 packs with 46 pampers each (4 x 46 = 184 pampers)
•Small: 14 packs with 56 pampers each (14 x 56 = 784 pampers)
In total, we distributed 1,004 pampers.
• Milk Cartons: 3 packs with 24 cartons each, totaling 72 milk cartons.
• Biscuit Pack: 1 large biscuit pack
These supplies are making a real difference for the children at the school. Thank you for supporting our mission to help those in need!
An Apology and Clarification on Terminology
I want to address an important matter regarding some of the images in our blog that include the term Mentally handicapped as used on the school gate. While this is the language that appears on the school’s materials, I want to clarify that I do not endorse this terminology. At Kilimanjaro Candles and More, we believe in using respectful and empowering language when referring to individuals with disabilities. Moving forward, we are committed to using terms like children with intellectual disabilities or special needs children to ensure our language reflects our values.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to make a positive impact in every aspect of our mission.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Grace Storry
Kilimanjaro Candles and More