The HIV/AIDS surge has mainly been responsible for the growing number of orphans here in Machakos. Children affected by this epidemic are in dire need of support as they face a myriad of challenges, including:
- High rates of school dropouts
- High levels of abuse and neglect
- Lack of basic needs, such as food
- Lack of access to medical treatment
- High incidence of child labor
- No access to any form of support as children deal with loss and bereavement
For most of these children, the death of one or both parents means the beginning of trouble. James 1:27 seeks to support these children, meeting their basic needs and help them find `the place of God in these life-changing events/matters. The ultimate goal of James 1:27 is to prevent another generation of orphans through education and spiritual encouragement. The children that the James 1:27 project help include:
- Orphans who have lost both parents and often consequently live in child-headed households
- Children who have lost one parent, resulting in poverty; often, the remaining parent has HIV/AIDS
- Children who are living with HIV/AIDS
