The Mathare Slums

Approximately 500,000 people live in an area of three square miles. They live in small shanties made of old tin and mud. For most, there are no beds, electricity, or running water. There are public toilets shared by up to 100 people and residents have to pay to use them. Those who cannot afford to pay must use the alleys and ditches between the shanties.

Given the extreme poverty and cultural traditions, most young girls grow up with little or no education, few career prospects in a male-dominated society, a lack of a maternal relationship that help them navigate the issues of becoming a young woman and a great need for spiritual input that will help them see themselves the way God does.

In Nairobi people say “Mathare, what good can come out of that place.” BUT… God is in the business of making beautiful things out of the dust. He is the light in the darkness there and he can use Elevate to reach the girls there in amazing ways.