20 February 2020
Children Press Office
We are thrilled to announce that Children of Africa has received a generous donation from the Airbnb Community Fund! This important contribution will help us continue our mission of providing education and opportunities to vulnerable girls and young women in Kenya.
Created in 2020, the Airbnb Community Fund is part of Airbnb’s commitment to supporting the communities where hosts live and operate. By 2030, the fund will distribute $100 million to organizations focused on environmental sustainability, economic independence, mental health, and the fight against exploitation. Airbnb hosts play a key role in this process by nominating organizations for funding through local Host Clubs.
This donation is not just tangible support—it also carries profound symbolic value. At Children of Africa we feel a deep connection with Airbnb’s philosophy, and “welcome” is undoubtedly a key value we share.
At our school, we welcome girls from vulnerable backgrounds who would otherwise have no future but early marriage and motherhood. We provide them with a second chance, a safe and inspiring environment where they can build a better future through education and vocational training.
Thanks to the Airbnb Community Fund donation, we can strengthen the activities of Mama Lorenza’s Vocational Centre, our vocational school for young women in Ukunda, on Kenya’s southern coast. The center welcomes girls from extremely difficult backgrounds, providing them with vocational training in dressmaking and beauty & hairdressing, preparing them for employment in the local hospitality industry.
But Mama Lorenza is more than just a vocational school. Beyond education, we offer psychological support, guidance, and a safe environment where girls can build self-confidence and aspire to a brighter future. 94.5% of our students secure jobs immediately after graduation, proving the tangible impact of our initiative.
With Airbnb’s support, we can provide school materials, training activities, and a stimulating environment. The girls receive balanced meals, participate in events and outings, and learn to explore the world with curiosity and confidence.
To receive this donation, Children of Africa obtained CAF America certification, ensuring that our organization operates transparently and that funds are used responsibly. This recognition allows us to receive international donations with the highest level of reliability and security.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Casa Hera, the host who nominated Children of Africa for this donation. Their support and trust in our mission have been instrumental in achieving this recognition.
We are deeply grateful to Airbnb and its host community for believing in our work and the transformative power of education. Every contribution makes a difference in the lives of our students, helping them build a brighter future!