Chandaria leads key support for disabled children

When businessman Dr Manu Chandaria gave a talk to students and innovators at USIU University in Nairobi on June 22, 2023. [File, Standard]

The Chandaria Foundation has donated an assortment of vital items to Bobleo Children's Home in West Pokot County, in partnership with Standard Group, EKA Hotel, West Pokot County Government and other organisations.

The donation comprises 100 mattresses, 50 pillows and 30 wheelchairs for the Catholic-sponsored institution that houses over 200 disabled children in Mnagei, West Pokot County.

Speaking in Nairobi during the flag-off ceremony, 96-year-old philanthropist Manu Chandaria said this is the second time his foundation has supported the facility, having previously assisted with wheelchairs in 2016.

"We are pleased to reach West Pokot, and we don't want to stop there. Anywhere in marginal areas, we would like to see which way we can support them," Dr Chandaria said.

The Chandaria Foundation, established in 1956, operates across 35 countries and supports over 4,000 employees while touching the lives of more than 40,000 people.

In Kenya, the foundation has established medical facilities including the Chandaria Accident Emergency Centers at Nairobi Hospital and Pandya Hospital in Mombasa, and cancer centers at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital and Kenyatta University Hospital.

West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin lauded the partners for their continued support of the Bobleo Children’s Home, which shelters more than 200 children with disabilities.

“This is not the first time we have received help from Dr Chandaria and Standard Group. Back in 2016, we began this partnership. Today, we return not just for donations, but for hope renewed,” Kachapin said.

“This home gives dignity to children abandoned by society, and we owe them our best.”

He added that West Pokot remains one of the more marginalised counties due to low literacy levels, harsh semi-arid conditions, and retrogressive practices such as early marriages.

Standard Group Chief Executive Editor Chaacha Mwita said the media house's involvement reflects its commitment to social responsibility beyond journalism. "As a media house with over a century of heritage, our role has never been limited to reporting the news. We are committed to shaping a better society," Mwita said.

The Standard Media Group Foundation operates under four pillars aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals: Climate action, quality education, good health and well-being, and reduced inequalities.

"This partnership reminds us that sustainable change is possible when the public and private sectors come together for a common good," Mwita added.

The Standard Group will continue its sustainability efforts with a golf tournament in Eldoret this weekend, featuring tree-planting focused on climate change mitigation.

Eka Hotel contributed blankets, shoes and foodstuff. “We are proud to be part of this initiative. Supporting children in need aligns with our core values as a hospitality brand rooted in community,” said Yvonne Natabona, Eka Hotel Sales Manager.  

Bobleo Children's Home is a haven for disabled children whose families have abandoned them or cannot provide adequate care. The institution has operated since 2008, relying on well-wishers for support. The home provides both education and medical care.