Finding a Support System After a Children’s Home: You’re Not Alone

Leaving a children’s home is a moment filled with hope but also fear. For many young adults, stepping into the world with no parents, limited networks, and minimal support can feel overwhelming. You’re expected to “figure life out” the moment you leave the gate, yet no one tells you how hard it can truly be.

But here’s the thing: you are not meant to walk this journey alone. Healing, growth, and stability become possible when you intentionally build a support system around you.

Why Community Matters for Life After Care

One of the biggest challenges for youth leaving children’s homes in Kenya is isolation. When you don’t have a family to run to with questions about work, relationships, housing, or money, life gets heavy fast.

A support system gives you:

People to guide you when you’re confused
A place to belong when loneliness hits
Connections to opportunities you wouldn’t access alone
Accountability when you feel like giving up
Emotional safety when the past tries to pull you back

You don’t need a big crowd, just a few stable, trustworthy people who see your potential.

Where to Find Support After a Children’s Home

Support is not always obvious, but it’s out there:

1. Mentorship Programs

Organizations like Daraja La Amani offer mentorship, guidance, and life-skills support for care-leavers. A mentor becomes that one person who checks on you, encourages you, and helps you make better decisions.

2. Community Centers & Churches

Youth groups, church fellowships, and community programs offer friendship, emotional support, and spiritual grounding. Many young people find family in these spaces.

3. Career & Vocational Programs

From job readiness training to entrepreneurship bootcamps, these programs help you develop skills, build confidence, and find work.

4. Alumni Networks

Connecting with fellow care-leavers creates mutual support. You’ll find people who understand your journey because they’ve lived it too.

Real Stories of Youth Who Found Support

Brian, 21, left a children’s home with nothing but a bag of clothes. A mentor connected him to a short computer skills course, and today he works in a cyber café and mentors other young men.
Mary, 19, struggled with loneliness until she joined a church youth ministry. That community became her safe place, helping her rebuild confidence and learn leadership.
Kevin, 23, joined a vocational program after leaving care. Today he’s a trained electrician supporting himself and offering guidance to others.

Each story reminds us: support changes destinies.

You Don’t Have to Do Life Alone

You may not have grown up with a stable family, but you can build one through mentorship, community, and meaningful relationships. Support systems help you heal, grow, and create a future you’re proud of.

Your past may have been tough but your future doesn’t have to be lonely.