
My name is Laura, and this is a story I carry in my heart.
During one of my journeys to Kenya, thanks to a dear friend from Nairobi, David, I met an extraordinary woman: Reverend Anne Mugane.
In 2002, Anne made an act of pure courage: she sold everything she owned to found the Merciful Redeemer Children’s Home in Kitengela, just outside Nairobi.
Her dream was simple yet profound: to rescue children from the inhumane conditions of the Kibera slums and offer them a home — a new chance at life.
Walking among the earth-toned walls of the shelter, I breathed in something unique: a place that is not just a refuge, but a seed of dignity and hope.
Every smile, every hug, every game told a story of rebirth.
If you would like to learn more about the Merciful Redeemer Children’s Home, you can visit the official website here:

After hearing Anne’s story and meeting the children, I knew I couldn’t stop at just feeling moved. It was time to act. With the support of several international organizations (including Global Giving and Kiva), we launched a major renovation of the Merciful Redeemer Children’s Home:

Amidst this intense work, there are moments that are forever etched in my soul.
I still vividly remember little Paul, a resident of the Redeemer, who climbed trustingly onto my lap with his unmistakable smile — a simple gesture, yet filled with deep meaning.
A gesture that spoke of trust regained, of finally feeling safe.
We documented every phase of the transformation with photos that bear witness to the rebirth of this extraordinary place.
Watching the children sleep peacefully in their new beds, enjoy meals cooked in a safe kitchen, and study in welcoming spaces — these are the true fruits of love turned into action.
For me, this experience is proof that love in action can truly change the world, one smile at a time.