For six years, Familia operated from rented accommodation in an area of Kisumu known for its high levels of crime. It was far from ideal, but it was all we could afford at the time.

Life there was often challenging. At night, we locked ourselves inside and, for safety reasons, avoided going outside until morning. Despite the difficulties, it provided a home and a place of safety for the girls who needed us.

Eventually, we were able to move closer to town. However, as a girls' rescue centre, we continued to attract unwanted attention and concerns about security remained. Just before the Covid pandemic, we made the decision to relocate to a more rural setting where the girls could enjoy greater privacy, safety and freedom.

By what felt like a miracle, we had enough funds to purchase a small piece of land. We quickly erected a simple farm shed and used it as our base while managing the construction of the new house day by day.

In 2020, after months of hard work and determination, the girls were finally able to come back together. As soon as the doors and windows were fitted, we moved in. It wasn't completely finished, but it was home.

Today, Familia stands as a safe and secure place where vulnerable girls can heal, grow and look forward to the future.