Children of Songea Trust

Preschool

HIV/AIDS remains a source of stigma and discrimination for many who are affected by the AIDS pandemic. Providing access to a welcoming, safe and stimulating environment where children can learn and play is vital for their development.

We ensure that 40 children each year have access to a basic education which will help them to thrive in later years.

Primary School

Primary education is free for all children in Tanzania, but orphaned children are sometimes turned away from school if they do not have the required school uniform, books, pencils, school bag and shoes.

We ensure that 140 children each year are provided with all the resources needed to get them into school.

Vocational Training

Sometimes children grow up with no-one to look after them, and can end up living on the street. These young people often have had no access to education.

We provide a range of vocational training opportunities for 20 young people each year to equip them with the skills to find work or become self-employed.

Healthcare

There is no national health service in Tanzania. When a child is sick, their family has to find the money to pay for a doctor or even to get the most basic medicine.

We provide medical insurance for 200 children and their families, enabling them to see a doctor or get medicines free of charge.

Nutrition

Orphaned children often stay with extended family or are looked after by other families in the community. Although these families do their best they often struggle to provide adequate care.

We ensure that each child is provided with a 2 meals a day, which helps them to stay healthy and gives them the energy to participate in daily activities.

Peer Education

Raising awareness of HIV isn't enough. It is vital that people know how to protect themselves and are supported to change their behaviour.

We train 100s of young people each year to become peer educators. This helps young people develop positive attitudes towards sex and relationships; and ensures that their behaviour does not put them at risk.

Community Development

People living with HIV and their families can feel isolated within their communities. Fear of the virus and a lack of knowledge about how to care for sick relatives results in unnecessary suffering.

We work with communities by providing training and support to assist families in need, and to challenge stigma and discrimination.