From a calling to a community of hope.
The Grace Community Centre was born out of compassion, faith, and a commitment to serve vulnerable children. This is how it began — and where it stands today.
It started with two abandoned children — and a teacher who couldn't look away.
Our journey began in December 2012, when our founder, Samuel Barasa — then a secondary school teacher — felt called to dedicate his life to children who had been abandoned, neglected or left without care.
While living in a rented room in Githurai 44, Samuel encountered two young children abandoned by their mother. He reported the matter to Kasarani Police Station and, with the encouragement of the Officer Commanding Station, took the children into his own care while a permanent solution was sought. As word spread, more vulnerable children were referred to him — and a life-changing mission began.
“Every child who finds safety, education, hope and belonging here is a testament to what is possible when a community comes together to care.”
Samuel BarasaFounder, The Grace Community Centre
More than a decade of grace
A calling begins
Samuel Barasa takes in two abandoned children in Githurai 44. With support from the local police and community, more children with nowhere else to go are welcomed into care.
Brilliant Future Academy
A small school opens in an informal settlement to educate children from low-income and vulnerable families. As more orphaned and neglected children arrive, classrooms double as dormitories and the work grows beyond education into shelter, food, clothing and care.
The Grace Community Centre is registered
The organization is formally registered under the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Services. Now based in Kahawa West — near Farmers Choice and the Ruiru Bypass roundabout — it grows into a trusted community institution.
Registration No. KAS/CBO/5/4/2015/378
Supporting 450+ children and 100+ vulnerable families
We support more than 450 children — orphans, abandoned and neglected children, and children from highly vulnerable households — alongside over 100 vulnerable families. Some children are living with HIV and receive ongoing medical care. The youngest is only a few months old; others have progressed to secondary school and beyond.
Grace for today, strength for tomorrow
Our goal is not only to meet immediate needs, but to create lasting opportunities that transform lives and strengthen communities — for every child who finds safety, education, hope and belonging here.
Resilience through real challenges.
Our journey has not been without obstacles. Limited funding, inadequate facilities and overcrowding have continually tested us. For many years we have operated from rented premises where classrooms become sleeping quarters at night.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought one of our greatest challenges — yet the Centre remained open, continuing to provide food, shelter, care and encouragement. Through the dedication of volunteers, supporters and community members, we kept serving those who needed us most.
Vision, mission & values
Our Vision
To provide shelter, food, clothing, education and holistic care to orphans and vulnerable children in Kenya and beyond — raising morally upright, disciplined and well-rounded individuals.
Our Mission
To empower vulnerable children and families by providing care, education, protection and opportunities that enable them to reach their full potential and become responsible, productive members of society.
Our Core Values
- CommitmentServing with dedication and consistency.
- PrayerTrusting God as the foundation of our work.
- DisciplineNurturing responsibility, integrity and good character.
A holistic approach to every child.
We address both immediate needs and long-term opportunity — supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, teachers, caregivers and mentors.
- Shelter, food & protectionSafe housing, nutrition and a caring home.
- Education & healthcareSchool support, plus medical assistance and referrals.
- Talent, sport & mentorshipCreative arts, recreation and life-skills training.
- Community & family outreachWalking with vulnerable households, not just children.
We don't do this alone
For more than a decade we've depended on the generosity of well-wishers, churches, community members, volunteers and partner organizations.
Grace for today, strength for tomorrow.
Every child who finds safety, hope and belonging here is proof of what a caring community can do. Walk with us.