In 2017/2018, Harvest Foundation implemented targeted interventions to support underprivileged communities living in the slums of Wakiso District, with a special focus on improving access to essential social services. The intervention aimed to uplift some of the most marginalized and vulnerable populations, including orphans and other vulnerable children (OVCs), youth, single mothers, persons living with HIV/AIDS, persons with disabilities, and men and women living in abject poverty.
These communities face a range of complex challenges, including limited access to quality education, healthcare services, security, and safe living environments. The urban slum setting in Wakiso is characterized by overcrowding, poor sanitation, inadequate infrastructure, and widespread poverty—factors that increase the vulnerability of residents and restrict their ability to thrive.
In response, Harvest Foundation implemented a community-driven program designed to bridge the gap between vulnerable populations and critical social services. A key component of this initiative was supporting OVCs to access formal education, recognizing that education plays a central role in breaking the cycle of poverty and equipping children for a better future.
Through partnerships with local schools, community leaders, and caregivers, the Foundation successfully supported over 100 orphans and vulnerable children to enroll in and remain in school during the 2017/2018 period. This support included the provision of school fees, scholastic materials, uniforms, and mentorship to ensure both academic performance and emotional well-being.
The gender breakdown of the children supported is shown in the table below:
Number of OVCs Supported through Education (2017/2018)
| Activity | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education | 69 | 31 | 100 |
By prioritizing the needs of OVCs and other vulnerable groups, Harvest Foundation continues to champion inclusive development and social justice, ensuring that even the most marginalized have access to opportunities that empower them to lead dignified and productive lives.
