Officers from Kisumu County Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have donated foodstuffs and learning aid materials to support special needs learners at Kibos School for the blind.
In a rare show of compassion, the officers led by Kisumu County Criminal Investigations boss Francis Wanjau, made personal contributions to put a smile on the faces of the learners.
Wanjau said the officers were touched by the plight of the learners who despite receiving capitation from the national government, still needed support from other organisations to make their stay and learning comfortable.
“Most of these students come from needy backgrounds and lack basic needs that is why we deemed it fit to visit and share with them,” he said.
The donations included maize flour, bread, eggs, wheat flour, rice, cooking oil, soap, sanitary towels and Braille printing papers.
“Braille printing paper is expensive with a ream going for up to Sh7, 000. That is why we are appealing to residents of Kisumu and other well-wishers to also support the school,” he said.
The officers who exchanged pleasantries with the learners to boost their morale also planted over 200 trees at the school compound to help conserve the environment.
Kibos School for the Blind head teacher Carolyne Templer said the institution, which has been in existence for the last 59 years depends largely on donations from well-wishers since the capitation from the government is not enough to fund their operations.
The school which has 178 learners and 19 teachers, she said was struggling with the high cost of learning materials, particularly Braille printing paper which is costly.
She further noted that it was the first time the facility was receiving such a donation from police officers and thanked them for the gesture.
The learners, she said, have demonstrated good performance despite the existing challenges and urged well-wishers to partner with the school to address the gaps.
By Chris Mahandara
