Founded in 1989, the Kibera Day Care Centre for the Elderly (KDCCE) has become a vital hub of support and hope for older adults living in the sprawling, impoverished informal settlements of Kenya. At its core, the centre champions the transformative power of intergenerational bonds. Here, the community’s younger members are not just encouraged to care for their elders, they are invited to learn from them, forging relationships built on empathy, respect, and shared understanding.
Through a variety of volunteering opportunities, mentorship programs, and community events, KDCCE offers a welcoming space where young people can give their time and attention to the elderly. In return, they receive invaluable wisdom, insights, and life lessons. This powerful exchange not only nurtures individual growth but also strengthens community ties, helps break down generational barriers, and enriches the lives of both young and old.
What is the value of generations coming together in programs like this?
We believe something deeply healing and beautiful happens when generations meet in our space. At the Kibera Day Care Centre for the Elderly, we are not just being cared for, we become a living bridge between past and present.
When young people come through our doors, bringing energy and curiosity, we feel a shift. We recall our youth and see the future in them. In these moments, we are not forgotten, we are truly seen and heard, which lights a spark in us. Our stories, full of challenge, joy, and hard-earned wisdom, turn into more than just memories. They become lessons, reminders of how far we’ve come. When youth listen with genuine interest, it brings us joy and purpose.
We see them learning patience, empathy, and respect for life. They discover that aging deserves honor, not fear. And we feel that we are still valued, still part of something larger. These connections keep our community strong, weaving us together into one shared story. The real gift of these programs is the sense of belonging, knowing we still have something to offer and are not alone. We need each other. And in this place, we truly find each other.
Life expectancy 2023
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