Orphan Care Program
Orphan Care Programs in Africa
For nearly three decades, Bread and Water for Africa® has been helping orphans across sub-Saharan Africa through holistic support programs. Partnering with trusted local organizations, we provide food, shelter, healthcare, and education to orphaned and vulnerable children. More than meeting basic needs, we empower children with the love, guidance, and tools they need to build brighter futures.
Explore the program
The challenge
Our care
Real stories
Our impact
FAQ
The challenge
Challenges Orphans Face in Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa faces a significant orphan crisis. In 2020, 11.5 million children had been orphaned by AIDS-related causes, representing 35% of all orphans globally. Conflict, poverty, and other diseases leave millions more without stable care.
Bread and Water for Africa® addresses these urgent challenges with holistic care that gives children the support, opportunities, and confidence they need to thrive.
ub-Saharan Africa faces a significant orphan crisis, with 11.5 million children orphaned by AIDS-related causes in 2020, according to UNICEF. These children represent 35% of all orphans globally. In addition, millions more are orphaned due to conflict, poverty, and other diseases, leaving them vulnerable to immense challenges, including:
Lack of Basic Needs
Many orphans struggle to access essentials like food, clean water, and healthcare.
Barriers to Education
Financial and logistical difficulties often prevent orphaned children from attending school, limiting their future opportunities.
Increased Vulnerability
Without a stable support system, orphans face a higher risk of exploitation, trafficking, and abuse.
Emotional Trauma
The loss of parents leaves many children with deep psychological wounds and ongoing challenges.
Bread and Water for Africa® is dedicated to help orphans in Africa by addressing critical challenges and providing holistic care. Our programs empower orphaned children with the tools, support, and opportunities they need to thrive and lead fulfilling lives.
How we help
Our Orphan Care Programs
Bread and Water for Africa® partners with trusted, community-based organizations to provide holistic support to orphaned and vulnerable children across Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Basic Necessities
Nutritious meals, safe shelter, and healthcare.
Education and Life Skills
Access to schools, academic support, and vocational training.
Emotional Support
Counseling and a family-like environment that fosters confidence and hope.
By addressing not just immediate needs but also long-term empowerment, our programs help children break the cycle of poverty and create brighter futures.
Real stories of care and possibility
Local partners create the safe, supportive environments where children can heal, learn, and grow into self-reliant adults.
Kabwata Orphanage and Transit Center (Zambia)
A transformative space for children like Mumba, who, with Kabwata’s support, pursued higher education and graduated with a degree in Environmental Health Sciences.
Watoto Wa Africa (Tanzania)
Supporting young people like Margaret, who overcame significant challenges and is now preparing for higher education. Watoto Wa Africa provides the stability and resources to help youth transition into self-reliance.
Lerato Children’s Village (Zimbabwe)
Offering care and life skills training for children like Akashinga, who recovered from a difficult past and embraced opportunities for growth and success.
Our impact in 2025
448 children supported across three countries.
In 2025, our Orphan Care Program supported 448 orphaned and abandoned children across three countries:
children in Zambia
children in Tanzania
children in Zimbabwe
Your contribution can be the turning point for a child’s future. By choosing to donate to orphans in Africa, you become a part of a compassionate community dedicated to creating opportunities and building brighter tomorrows. Your generosity ensures these children have the resources and support they need to thrive, from education to a nurturing home environment. Together, we can provide hope and a pathway to a better life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Orphan Care Program provide for children?
The program offers holistic support, including nutritious meals, safe shelter, healthcare, education, and counseling. This comprehensive approach ensures children thrive in a nurturing and loving environment.
Where does the Orphan Care Program operate?
Our program supports children in Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Uganda through partnerships with orphanages like the Lewa Children’s Home, Kabwata Orphanage and Transit Center, Watoto Wa Africa, Kyasira Home of Hope, and Lerato Children’s Village.
Why is education an important part of the program?
Education empowers children to break the cycle of poverty. By providing access to quality education and life skills training, we help children unlock their potential and build brighter futures.
How can I stay updated on the impact of my donation?
We regularly share updates, success stories, and program highlights to show how your contributions make a difference. Follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news.
Can I dedicate my donation to honor or remember someone?
Yes, you can make a tribute donation in honor or memory of a loved one. Visit our donation page for more details on how to set up a dedication.
What is the best way to help orphans in Africa?
Making a monthly donation is one of the best ways to help orphans in Africa. Your consistent contributions ensure ongoing care, education, and resources for children in need, while also supporting long-term projects and sustainability.
How does Bread and Water for Africa® ensure donations are used effectively?
We work directly with our partner organizations to ensure that every dollar goes toward providing essential care, education, and resources for the children who need it most.
Latest News/Blogs
Wilson, Samuel and Joseph: Three Abandoned Brothers Find Love in Phyllis’ Arms
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This week, in recognition of Mother’s Day, May 10, we at Bread and Water for Africa® are paying tribute to our “Mothers of Africa” – Phyllis Keino, Angela Miyanda, Margaret Makambira and our newest, Rosemary Kirutu, who are giving of themselves so selflessly to…
Safe, Supported, and Thriving: A New Chapter for Zambia’s Children
At the Kabwata Orphanage in Lusaka, Zambia, there are 106 orphaned and abandoned children and youth (62 girls and 44 boys) living there who call it home, for many, their first “real” home. With grant support from Bread and Water for Africa®, Kabwata provides “holistic…
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