Our Motivation
Our motivation is in response to the love and compassion of Jesus:
to proclaim good news to the poor,
bind up the broken hearted,
proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness and
comfort all who mourn…..
Jesus Luke 4:18
Our Story
In 2011 Robyn Lindsay joined a volunteer team to provide training for teachers and to survey the needs for special education amongst a number of not-for-profit organisations in Kenya. The survey results indicated a concerning number of children with eye conditions in the western part of Kenya.
During the following year a pilot project was set up to screen over 200 school-aged children from schools around the town of Awasi. Children were referred to local health professionals for medical treatment, spectacles and to Sabatia Eye Hospital for surgery.
Our Story
Pilot vision project in Kenya highlighted the need for Surgery and Specialist Care.
(Photos courtesy of Tash McCarroll Photography)
This intervention has made a significant difference in the lives of these children who are now able to attend regular schools and continue their education.
There are, however, children in Kenya whose education is best delivered in a specialized setting where they can learn Braille or Kenyan Sign Language, communicate with their peers in a common language, or participate in basic life skills education.
These children are often hidden away from sight, deprived of the opportunity for an education, growing independence and participation in their communities.
Families often do not have the finances for medications, surgery or the additional costs for boarding their child at a specialist school.
Hence REGAINED was formed –
to raise funds to enable these children to REGAIN the opportunities lost to them through being disabled, orphaned or living in poverty.
Our Organisation
REGAINED Incorporated is a Public Benevolent Institution registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). We are based on the Atherton Tablelands, to the west of Cairns in tropical Far North Queensland.
Our mission is to facilitate opportunities for children in Kenya who are disabled, orphaned or living in poverty.
Presently the focus area is western Kenya encompassing Kisumu, east to Awasi, and the surrounding area.
Primary beneficiaries are young children aged under 6 years, children aged 6 to 15 years and young people aged 15 to 25 years each of whom may be disabled, orphaned or living in poverty. Secondary beneficiaries include the families of these children, and indirect beneficiaries include members of the wider community.
Funds are raised in Australia through donations and fundraising activities. These funds are sent overseas to our Kenya-based Coordinator who oversees the expenditure of funds for projects approved by the Regained Committee in Australia.
Joshua Opondo who is based near Kisumu, oversees the expenditure of funds for specialist school fees, medical interventions and specialist equipment. The Kenya Ministry of Education decides on the placement of children referred by our Coordinators.
Joshua has an extensive knowledge of educational and medical services plus wide contact with families and young people, continuing on from his role as former Diocesan Youth Coordinator for the Anglican Church in Kisumu.
Joshua Opondo and his Family
F.A.Q.
Frequent Questions
How much does it cost to support a student with a disability at a specialist boarding school?
Just $48 per month ($576 per year) will cover the costs for one child to attend a school for the visually, hearing or intellectually impaired.
Can I sponsor an individual student?
REGAINED uses funds to cover the costs of all our sponsored children, rather than individual sponsorship. You can keep up-to-date with the progress of the students through our newsletter.
How much does a treadle sewing machine cost?
Treadle sewing machines are useful at the village level as they do not require electricity. They can be purchased in Kisumu and transported to the community for approximately AU $300. With the expansion of the Rural Electrification program it may be possible to introduce electric sewing machines.
What expenses are covered by this support?
Your support covers the cost of educational assessments as well as school fees and basic school necessities including uniforms. Newly enrolled children need a foam mattress, 2 sheets, 2 blankets, a mosquito net, 2 pairs of school uniform, socks, shoes, sweater, raincoat, face masks, pyjamas, toiletries, a towel, a basin, plate, cup and spoon.
Can I give a used computer to use in Kenya?
REGAINED purchases new and reconditioned computers from reputable businesses in Kenya. This helps local businesses and eliminates concerns with customs, handling and transportation.
How much do computers cost?
The cost of a new computer suitable for use by BCYD ranges from AU $400 to AU $550.