What We Do

KIMBILIO CENTER meaning “refuge” in Swahili is a treatment center for severely malnourished children and a home for hospice patients who would otherwise die alone.  In 2010, our goal is to expand this vision by initiating a 6 bed palliative care center until we are able to buy property and build a home that will house 24 adults and children at a time as well as a counseling center to support families during the patient’s illness and bereavement. With a multi-disciplinary approach, our team will extend quality physical, emotional and spiritual care to those with life-threatening illness.

TUMAINI NA AFYA’S FIGHT AGAINST HIV/AIDS In October 2004, Tumaini na Afya, (meaning Hope and Health) was born in response to the needs of the community. Living Room Ministries International will continue to carry out the vision and work of Tumaini na Afya by focusing on the prevention of HIV/AIDS, mobilizing those who are already infected with the virus for treatment services, as well as continued follow-up within the community.

HIV/AIDS Awareness Campaigns - Upon the request of Empowering Lives International, Living Room Ministries International will continue to carry out the vision and work of these campaigns. HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns have been held in 25 communities with the goal of promoting awareness, reducing fear and stigma, and offering hope through HIV testing and referral to treatment.  Crowds of up to 6,000 people are drawn by various games including football (soccer) and volleyball tournaments, bicycle races, and relays as well as entertainment from bands.  HIV+ individuals from the program have willingly shared about their HIV status and encouraged others within the community to be tested during these one-day campaigns.

HIV 101 – One day “Basics of HIV/AIDS” training events have been offered to 6,090 youth aged 12-24 years at 17 primary and secondary schools as well as other venues throughout this region.  The training includes teachings and videos about HIV/AIDS facts and feelings, prevention and transmission, and promotes discussion and behavior change amongst the students regarding HIV/AIDS and early pregnancy.

Home Based Care – Within the Western Kenya community, Tumaini na Afya has been visiting 50 individuals infected or affected by HIV/AIDS or other chronic illnesses to follow up on their medication adherence, nutritional status, and overall physical and emotional health.  In addition, 25 orphans and vulnerable children have been identified and frequently visited, offering emotional support, food support and healthcare as needed. In 2010, expanded palliative care services will be offered to those suffering with life-limiting illnesses as well as to their families.