sylviam

My husband and nephew want to bring deflated soccer balls along with a few hand pumps to give out while in Kenya. We will mainly be on safari (only in Nairobi 2 evenings). I am sure that we will come in contact with some kids in villages or even staff/guide. Do you think this is a good idea?

loru100

I've heard of people doing this before. I've also heard of people bringing pens, pencils, etc. which would be a lot easier to carry. On three previous safaris in Kenya and Botswana we have not run into any children or villages (which seems strange now that I say it), although when we went to Rwanda last year we ran into lots of kids but we had brought little chocolate bars which they seemed to love. I probably gave out 200 chocolate bars over three days. I'm sure whatever you decide to give will be greatly appreciated.

sandi

Soccer balls are appreciated, but I'd check with your safari operator where it's likely you'll come across a school or orphanage for these to be given the adult in-charge for distribution as they deem appropriate. I'd never just hand these out to children (there are lots everywhere) along the roadside.

Same would hold true for school supplies - pens, pencils, post-its, colored paper/pens, sparklies, etc.

No candy or gum even if sugar free... most of these kids will never get to see a dentist. Though toothbrushes/paste are good gifts.

And, please don't hand out anything along the roads... the children should not be begging or expecting anything from individuals (assumed rich) in safari vehicles. The kids belong in school or working.

christabir

I would contact a charity, school or orphanage before going, but I think it's GREAT idea. If you are going in business class or if you call the airline before you go, they might let you bring extra luggage or boxes for charity.

NoFlyZone

Also, soccer balls are bulky so I would recommend asking your tour operator what the items would cost in Nairobi at a sporting goods store. Chances are better than average that your budget would go further there and you would also avoid luggage hassling with the airlines.

If that price is right, try to talk your tourop into obtaining the items and having them ready when you arrive. Be sure to promise cash on the spot to pay him back.

I've done similar in the past and it usually works out great.

atravelynn

Whatever you decide, I agree with Sandi's comments.

<i>"No candy or gum even if sugar free... most of these kids will never get to see a dentist. Though toothbrushes/paste are good gifts.

And, please don't hand out anything along the roads... the children should not be begging or expecting anything from individuals (assumed rich) in safari vehicles. The kids belong in school or working."</i>

safarimama

Ditto, Sandi and Lynn. This cannot be stressed enough! I so agree.

I always contact my TO and ask what they need. Usually, they support a local school or project and will tell you. I usually end up with an extra bag, that I check, that is all for the local charity of choice with my TO. I give this away upon arrival. I've received thank you notes from school children in slum areas that will make your heart break! Bless their poor souls.

Touch one child at a time ... it will make a difference!

LyndaS

Hi Sylvia,

If I recall correctly, your TO is Daniel with DK Safaris. If I'm right, email him as his company supports the building of a vocational school in a village a few hours north east of Nairobi. When we went in May we went to a thrift store, purchased a used duffle bag and filled it full of kids clothes (bought there) and tons of school supplies bought from Office Depot and a local dollar store - pens, pencils, workbooks, crayons, erasers, the whole nine yards. We gave it to him on arrival & he made sure it got to the school.

I'm betting that he would love to have some soccer balls to take out to the school!

tactile

A little story here which will help explain why tourists should not be giving handouts to children.
http://wateringhole.gapadventures.co...t=10999#p46353

Gritty

Why not try to find a school or village to support that's off the tourist track? The benefits of tourism usually don't reach very far into the countryside.

sylviam

LyndaS: Did you purchase these items at home from a thrift store etc. or once you arrived in Nairobi? Yes our TO is Daniel and he has been very helpful just as you said in your reports. My nephew cannot wait to arrive in Kenya despite the 22 hour trip.